Plastic to textile coupling for a patient interface and methods of manufacturing same

ABSTRACT

A manufactured component, such as headgear or a headgear strap, for a patient interface for delivery of pressurised air or breathable gas to an entrance of a patient&#39;s airways may include a textile portion having a first material with a first melting point. It may also include a plastic portion over-moulded to the textile portion. The plastic portion may be formed of a second material having a second melting point. The melting points may be different such that the second melting point is chosen to be less than the first melting point of the first material. The component may be moulded in a multi-step process that moulds separate portions of the plastic portion and the textile portion at different times. The resulting plastic portion may then have a mechanical bond with the textile and may do so without significant chemical bonding between the plastic portion and the textile.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/061,041, filed Mar. 4, 2016, which claims the benefit of the filing date of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/244,924, filed Oct. 22, 2015 and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/128,188, filed Mar. 4, 2015, the disclosures of all of which are incorporated herein by reference

FIELD OF THE TECHNOLOGY

The present technology relates to one or more of the diagnosis, treatment and amelioration of respiratory disorders, and to procedures to prevent respiratory disorders. In particular, the present technology relates to medical devices, and their use for treating respiratory disorders and for preventing respiratory disorders.

DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART

The respiratory system of the body facilitates gas exchange. The nose and mouth form the entrance to the airways of a patient.

The airways include a series of branching tubes, which become narrower, shorter and more numerous as they penetrate deeper into the lung. The prime function of the lungs is gas exchange, allowing oxygen to move from the air into the venous blood and carbon dioxide to move out. The trachea divides into right and left main bronchi, which further divide eventually into terminal bronchioles. The bronchi make up the conducting airways, and do not take part in gas exchange. Further divisions of the airways lead to the respiratory bronchioles, and eventually to the alveoli. The alveolated region of the lung is where the gas exchange takes place, and is referred to as the respiratory zone.

A range of respiratory disorders exist.

Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA), a form of Sleep Disordered Breathing (SDB), is characterized by occlusion of the upper air passage during sleep. It results from a combination of an abnormally small upper airway and the normal loss of muscle tone in the region of the tongue, soft palate and posterior oropharyngeal wall during sleep. The condition causes the affected patient to stop breathing for periods typically of 30 to 120 seconds duration, sometimes 200 to 300 times per night. It often causes excessive daytime somnolence, and it may cause cardiovascular disease and brain damage. The syndrome is a common disorder, particularly in middle aged overweight males, although a person affected may have no awareness of the problem. See U.S. Pat. No. 4,944,310 (Sullivan).

Cheyne-Stokes Respiration (CSR) is a disorder of a patient's respiratory controller in which there are rhythmic alternating periods of waxing and waning ventilation, causing repetitive de-oxygenation and re-oxygenation of the arterial blood. It is possible that CSR is harmful because of the repetitive hypoxia. In some patients CSR is associated with repetitive arousal from sleep, which causes severe sleep disruption, increased sympathetic activity, and increased afterload. See U.S. Pat. No. 6,532,959 (Berthon-Jones).

Obesity Hyperventilation Syndrome (OHS) is defined as the combination of severe obesity and awake chronic hypercapnia, in the absence of other known causes for hypoventilation. Symptoms include dyspnea, morning headache and excessive daytime sleepiness.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) encompasses any of a group of lower airway diseases that have certain characteristics in common. These include increased resistance to air movement, extended expiratory phase of respiration, and loss of the normal elasticity of the lung. Examples of COPD are emphysema and chronic bronchitis. COPD is caused by chronic tobacco smoking (primary risk factor), occupational exposures, air pollution and genetic factors. Symptoms include: dyspnea on exertion, chronic cough and sputum production.

Neuromuscular Disease (NMD) is a broad term that encompasses many diseases and ailments that impair the functioning of the muscles either directly via intrinsic muscle pathology, or indirectly via nerve pathology. Some NMD patients are characterised by progressive muscular impairment leading to loss of ambulation, being wheelchair-bound, swallowing difficulties, respiratory muscle weakness and, eventually, death from respiratory failure. Neuromuscular disorders can be divided into rapidly progressive and slowly progressive: (i) Rapidly progressive disorders: Characterised by muscle impairment that worsens over months and results in death within a few years (e.g. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) in teenagers); (ii) Variable or slowly progressive disorders: Characterised by muscle impairment that worsens over years and only mildly reduces life expectancy (e.g. Limb girdle, Facioscapulohumeral and Myotonic muscular dystrophy). Symptoms of respiratory failure in NMD include: increasing generalised weakness, dysphagia, dyspnea on exertion and at rest, fatigue, sleepiness, morning headache, and difficulties with concentration and mood changes.

Chest wall disorders are a group of thoracic deformities that result in inefficient coupling between the respiratory muscles and the thoracic cage. The disorders are usually characterised by a restrictive defect and share the potential of long term hypercapnic respiratory failure. Scoliosis and/or kyphoscoliosis may cause severe respiratory failure. Symptoms of respiratory failure include: dyspnea on exertion, peripheral oedema, orthopnoea, repeated chest infections, morning headaches, fatigue, poor sleep quality and loss of appetite.

Otherwise healthy individuals may take advantage of systems and devices to prevent respiratory disorders from arising.

Systems

One known product used for treating SDB is the S9 Sleep Therapy System, manufactured by ResMed.

Therapy

Nasal Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy has been used to treat Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). The hypothesis is that continuous positive airway pressure acts as a pneumatic splint and may prevent upper airway occlusion by pushing the soft palate and tongue forward and away from the posterior oropharyngeal wall.

Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) has been used to treat OHS, COPD, MD and Chest Wall disorders.

Patient Interface

The application of a supply of air at positive pressure to the entrance of the airways of a patient is facilitated by the use of a patient interface, such as a nasal mask, full-face mask or nasal pillows. A full-face mask includes a mask with one sealing-forming portion covering at least the nares and mouth, or more than one sealing-forming portion to individually cover at least the nares and mouth. A range of patient interface devices are known, however a number of them suffer from being one or more of obtrusive, aesthetically undesirable, poorly fitting, difficult to use and uncomfortable especially when worn for long periods of time or when a patient is unfamiliar with a system. Masks designed solely for aviators, as part of personal protection equipment or for the administration of anaesthetics may be tolerable for their original application, but nevertheless be undesirably uncomfortable to be worn for extended periods, for example, while sleeping.

Seal-Forming Structure

Patient interfaces typically include a seal-forming structure.

One type of seal-forming structure extends around the periphery of the patient interface, and is intended to seal against the user's face when force is applied to the patient interface with the seal-forming structure in confronting engagement with the user's face. The seal-forming structure may include an air or fluid filled cushion, or a moulded or formed surface of a resilient seal element made of an elastomer such as a rubber. With this type of seal-forming structure, if the fit is not adequate, there will be gaps between the seal-forming structure and the face, and additional force will be required to force the patient interface against the face in order to achieve a seal.

Another type of seal-forming structure incorporates a flap seal of thin material so positioned about the periphery of the mask so as to provide a self-sealing action against the face of the user when positive pressure is applied within the mask. Like the previous style of seal-forming structure, if the match between the face and the mask is not good, additional force may be required to effect a seal, or the mask may leak. Furthermore, if the shape of the seal-forming structure does not match that of the patient, it may crease or buckle in use, giving rise to leaks.

Another form of seal-forming structure may use adhesive to effect a seal. Some patients may find it inconvenient to constantly apply and remove an adhesive to their face.

A range of patient interface seal-forming structure technologies are disclosed in the following patent applications, assigned to ResMed Limited: WO 1998/004,310; WO 2006/074,513; WO 2010/135,785.

Positioning and Stabilising

A seal-forming structure of a patient interface used for positive air pressure therapy is subject to the corresponding force of the air pressure to disrupt a seal. Thus a variety of techniques have been used to position the seal-forming structure, and to maintain it in sealing relation with the appropriate portion of the face.

One technique is the use of adhesives. See for example US Patent publication US 2010/0000534.

Another technique is the use of one or more straps and stabilising harnesses. Many such harnesses suffer from being one or more of ill-fitting, bulky, uncomfortable and awkward to use.

Rigid elements, also known as “rigidisers”, have been used with stretchable headgears previously. One known problem is associated with the fact that a rigidiser permanently attached (e.g. laminated or stitched) to a large area of the stretchable material limits the stretchable length of the material, thus affecting the elastic properties of the entire headgear. Another issue concerns cleaning the headgear which would require both the rigidiser and stretchable material to be washed together as they are permanently attached to each other.

Vent Technologies

Some forms of patient interface systems may include a vent to allow the washout of exhaled carbon dioxide. Many such vents are noisy. Others may block in use and provide insufficient washout. Some vents may be disruptive of the sleep of a bed-partner of the patient, e.g. through noise or focussed airflow. Some vents cannot be properly cleaned and must be discarded after they become blocked. Some vents are intended to be used for a short duration of time, i.e. less than three months, and therefore are manufactured from fragile material to prevent washing or frequent washing so as to encourage more frequent replacement of the vent.

ResMed Limited has developed a number of improved mask vent technologies. See WO 1998/034,665; WO 2000/078,381; U.S. Pat. No. 6,581,594; US Patent Application; US 2009/0050156; US Patent Application 2009/0044808.

Table of noise of prior masks (ISO 17510-2: 2007, 10 cmH₂O pressure at 1 m) A- A-weighted weighted sound sound power pressure Mask level dbA dbA Year Mask name type (uncertainty) (uncertainty) (approx.) Glue-on (*) nasal 50.9 42.9 1981 ResCare standard (*) nasal 31.5 23.5 1993 ResMed Mirage (*) nasal 29.5 21.5 1998 ResMed UltraMirage nasal 36 (3) 28 (3) 2000 ResMed Mirage nasal 32 (3) 24 (3) 2002 Activa ResMed Mirage Micro nasal 30 (3) 22 (3) 2008 ResMed Mirage nasal 29 (3) 22 (3) 2008 SoftGel ResMed Mirage FX nasal 26 (3) 18 (3) 2010 ResMed Mirage nasal 37   29   2004 Swift (*) pillows ResMed Mirage Swift nasal 28 (3) 20 (3) 2005 II pillows ResMed Mirage Swift nasal 25 (3) 17 (3) 2008 LT pillows ResMed Swift FX nasal 25 (3) 17 (3) 2011 pillows ResMed Mirage series full face 31.7 23.7 2000 I, II (*) ResMed UltraMirage full face 35 (3) 27 (3) 2004 ResMed Mirage full face 26 (3) 18 (3) 2006 Quattro ResMed Mirage full face 27 (3) 19 (3) 2008 Quattro FX (*) one specimen only, measured using test method specified in ISO3744 in CPAP mode at 10 cmH₂O)

Sound pressure values of a variety of objects are listed below

A-weighted sound pressure dbA Object (uncertainty) Notes Vacuum cleaner: 68 ISO3744 at 1 m Nilfisk Walter distance Broadly Litter Hog: B+ Grade Conversational 60 1 m distance speech Average home 50 Quiet library 40 Quiet bedroom at 30 night Background in TV 20 studio

Nasal Pillow Technologies

One form of nasal pillow is found in the Adam Circuit manufactured by Puritan Bennett. Another nasal pillow, or nasal puff is the subject of U.S. Pat. No. 4,782,832 (Trimble et al.), assigned to Puritan-Bennett Corporation.

ResMed Limited has manufactured the following products that incorporate nasal pillows: SWIFT™ nasal pillows mask, SWIFT II™ nasal pillows mask, SWIFT LT™ nasal pillows mask, SWIFT FX™ nasal pillows mask and LIBERTY full-face mask. The following patent applications, assigned to ResMed Limited, describe nasal pillows masks: International Patent Application WO2004/073,778 (describing amongst other things aspects of ResMed SWIFT™ nasal pillows), US Patent Application 2009/0044808 (describing amongst other things aspects of ResMed SWIFT LT nasal pillows); International Patent Applications WO 2005/063,328 and WO 2006/130,903 (describing amongst other things aspects of ResMed LIBERTY™ full-face mask); International Patent Application WO 2009/052,560 (describing amongst other things aspects of ResMed SWIFT FX™ nasal pillows).

PAP Device

The air at positive pressure is typically supplied to the airway of a patient by a PAP device such as a motor-driven blower. The outlet of the blower is connected via a flexible delivery conduit to a patient interface as described above.

Mandibular Repositioning

A mandibular repositioning device (MRD) is one of the treatment options for sleep apnea. It is a custom made, adjustable oral appliance available from a dentist that holds the lower jaw in a forward position during sleep. This mechanical protrusion expands the space behind the tongue, puts tension on the pharyngeal walls to reduce collapse of the airway and diminishes palate vibration.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE TECHNOLOGY

The present technology is directed towards providing medical devices used in the diagnosis, amelioration, treatment, or prevention of respiratory disorders having one or more of improved comfort, cost, efficacy, ease of use and manufacturability.

One aspect of the present technology relates to apparatus used in the diagnosis, amelioration, treatment or prevention of a respiratory disorder.

Another aspect of the present technology relates to methods used in the diagnosis, amelioration, treatment or prevention of a respiratory disorder.

An aspect of one form of the present technology is a method of manufacturing the patient interface.

An aspect of one form of the present technology is a method of manufacturing headgear or a positioning and stabilising structure for a patient interface.

One aspect of one form of the present technology is a patient interface with a seal-forming structure that is removable for cleaning. It is the desire of the present technology to provide a patient interface that is light-weight compared to prior art patient interfaces, more unobtrusive compared to prior art patient interfaces and more quiet in use compared to prior art patient interfaces. It is also desirable to provide a patient interface that is intuitive to a patient when connecting mask components prior to commencement of therapy and is also simple to adjust and wear for therapy.

An aspect of one form of the present technology is a patient interface having a seal-forming structure that is locatable in position on the patient interface via a hard-to-hard connection. Another aspect of one form of the present technology is seal-forming structure of a patient interface that is removable for cleaning without requiring disconnection of a headgear portion of the patient interface.

An aspect of one form of the present technology is a patient interface comprising a seal-forming structure, a plenum chamber and a connection portion, wherein the seal-forming structure and the plenum chamber are formed from a relatively soft material, and the connection portion is formed from relatively rigid material. In one form the connection portion is removably connectable to a frame of the patient interface, e.g. via a snap-action, toggle or bi-stable mechanism. In one form the connection portion is insert moulded to the plenum chamber.

An aspect of one form of the present technology is a component for a patient interface that directs a supply of pressurised air or breathable gas to an entrance of a patient's airway. The component includes a textile portion includes a first material having a first melting point, and a portion over-moulded to the textile portion, the portion being formed of a second material having a second melting point, the second melting point being less than the first melting point of the first material.

In some examples, the textile portion forms at least one strap of a positioning and stabilising structure for a patient interface device and the plastic portion forms an end cap disposed on an end of the at least one strap to prevent fraying of the at least one strap.

In some examples, the textile portion includes a textile mask and the plastic portion forms a shape-defining portion on the textile mask.

In some examples, the shape-defining portion includes a plastic nose bridge.

In some examples, the textile portion forms at least one strap of a positioning and stabilising structure for a patient interface device and the plastic portion forms a connector for coupling the at least one strap to a patient interface.

In some examples, the connector includes a female plastic member for coupling to a male plastic member on the patient interface.

In some examples, the textile portion forms two straps coupled to the plastic portion at opposing ends of the plastic portion.

In some examples, the second material of the plastic portion is more elastic than the first material of the textile portion.

In some examples, the plastic portion comprises two plastic members that are over-moulded to the textile portion on at least two opposing surfaces of the textile portion.

In some examples, the two plastic members are over-moulded sequentially to the textile portion.

In some examples, at least one of the two plastic members is substantially L-shaped.

In some examples, at least one of the two plastic members is substantially rectangular.

In some examples, the two plastic members are over-moulded on three surfaces of the textile portion.

In some examples, the second material of the plastic portion comprises a thermoplastic polyurethane.

In some examples, the textile portion further includes a third material, the third material being formed of elastane.

In some examples, the textile portion and the plastic portion are coupled to each other without a chemical bond.

In some examples, the second melting point is approximately 220° C. and/or the first melting point is approximately 225° C.

In some examples, the textile portion includes a knitted structure of two materials, the knitted structure defining gaps therebetween, and wherein the plastic portion is over-moulded to the textile portion such that segments of the plastic portions pass through the gaps of the textile portion.

In some examples, the second material of the plastic portion includes at least one of TPE-ET DuPont Hytrel 5556, PP Borealis RF830 MO+NCS S4500 grey 4% and TPE Dynaflex GLS345-156 Mid grey PMS423C.

In some examples, the textile portion and the plastic portion are able to withstand a pull test up to 40 N without failing.

In some examples, the textile portion and the plastic portion are able to withstand a bending test up to 64 bending occurrences without failure.

In some examples, the textile portion and the plastic portion are able to withstand a washing test by being able to withstand 160 minutes of washing in a washing machine without failure.

In some examples, the textile portion and the plastic portion are able to withstand a weld strength test up to 40 N without failing.

An aspect of one form of the present technology is a method for manufacturing a patient interface for the treatment of respiratory disorders. The method includes forming a textile portion from a first material having a first melting point and over-moulding a plastic portion onto the textile portion, the plastic portion being formed of a second material having a second melting point, the second melting point being less than the first melting point of the first material.

In some examples, over-moulding a plastic portion includes over-moulding a first plastic member onto a first surface of the textile portion and over-moulding a second plastic member onto a second surface of the textile portion.

In some examples, the first plastic member is substantially L-shaped and the second plastic member is substantially rectangular.

In some examples, the first plastic member and the second plastic member are moulded sequentially.

In some examples, the textile portion and the plastic portion are able to withstand a pull test up to 40 N without failing.

In some examples, the textile portion and the plastic portion are able to withstand a bending test up to 64 bending occurrences without failure.

In some examples, the textile portion and the plastic portion are able to withstand a washing test by being able to withstand 160 minutes of washing in a washing machine without failure.

In some examples, the textile portion and the plastic portion are able to withstand a weld strength test up to 40 N without failing.

In examples, (a) over-moulding a plastic portion comprises over-moulding a first plastic member onto a first surface of the textile portion and over-moulding a second plastic member onto a second surface of the textile portion, (b) the first plastic member is substantially L-shaped and the second plastic member is substantially rectangular, or (c) the first plastic member and the second plastic member are moulded sequentially.

Another aspect of one form of the present technology is a patient interface that is moulded or otherwise constructed with a clearly defined perimeter shape which is intended to match that of an intended wearer (i.e. patient) and be intimate and conform with the face of the intended wearer.

Of course, portions of the aspects may form sub-aspects of the present technology. Also, various ones of the sub-aspects and/or aspects may be combined in various manners and also constitute additional aspects or sub-aspects of the present technology.

Other features of the technology will be apparent from consideration of the information contained in the following detailed description, abstract, drawings and claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

The present technology is illustrated by way of example, and not by way of limitation, in the figures of the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to similar elements including:

Treatment Systems

FIG. 1a shows a system in accordance with the present technology. A patient 1000 wearing a patient interface 3000, receives a supply of air at positive pressure from a PAP device 4000. Air from the PAP device 4000 is humidified in a humidifier 5000, and passes along an air circuit 4170 to the patient 1000.

FIG. 1b shows a PAP device 4000 in use on a patient 1000 with a nasal mask.

FIG. 1c shows a PAP device 4000 in use on a patient 1000 with a full-face mask.

Therapy Respiratory System

FIG. 2a shows an overview of a human respiratory system including the nasal and oral cavities, the larynx, vocal folds, oesophagus, trachea, bronchus, lung, alveolar sacs, heart and diaphragm.

FIG. 2b shows a view of a human upper airway including the nasal cavity, nasal bone, lateral nasal cartilage, greater alar cartilage, nostril, lip superior, lip inferior, larynx, hard palate, soft palate, oropharynx, tongue, epiglottis, vocal folds, oesophagus and trachea.

Facial Anatomy

FIG. 2c is a front view of a face with several features of surface anatomy identified including the lip superior, upper vermillion, lower vermillion, lip inferior, mouth width, endocanthion, a nasal ala, nasolabial sulcus and cheilion.

FIG. 2d is a side view of a head with several features of surface anatomy identified including glabella, sellion, pronasale, subnasale, lip superior, lip inferior, supramenton, nasal ridge, otobasion superior and otobasion inferior. Also indicated are the directions superior & inferior, and anterior & posterior.

FIG. 2e is a further side view of a head. The approximate locations of the Frankfort horizontal and nasolabial angle are indicated.

FIG. 2f shows a base view of a nose.

FIG. 2g shows a side view of the superficial features of a nose.

FIG. 2h shows subcutaneal structures of the nose, including lateral cartilage, septum cartilage, greater alar cartilage, lesser alar cartilage and fibrofatty tissue.

FIG. 2i shows a medial dissection of a nose, approximately several millimeters from a sagittal plane, amongst other things showing the septum cartilage and medial crus of greater alar cartilage.

FIG. 2j shows a front view of the bones of a skull including the frontal, temporal, nasal and zygomatic bones. Nasal concha are indicated, as are the maxilla, mandible and mental protuberance.

FIG. 2k shows a lateral view of a skull with the outline of the surface of a head, as well as several muscles. The following bones are shown: frontal, sphenoid, nasal, zygomatic, maxilla, mandible, parietal, temporal and occipital. The mental protuberance is indicated. The following muscles are shown: digastricus, masseter sternocleidomastoid and trapezius.

FIG. 2l shows an anterolateral view of a nose.

PAP Device and Humidifier

FIG. 3a shows an exploded view of a PAP device according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 3b shows a perspective view of a humidifier in accordance with one form of the present technology.

FIG. 3c shows a schematic diagram of the pneumatic circuit of a PAP device in accordance with one form of the present technology. The directions of upstream and downstream are indicated.

Patient Interface

FIG. 4 is an anterior view of a plenum chamber in accordance with one form of the present technology.

FIG. 5 is a cross section along line 5-5 of FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 is an enlarged detail view taken from FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view from the top of the plenum chamber shown in FIG. 4.

FIG. 8 is a cross-section along line 8-8 of FIG. 7.

FIG. 9 is an enlarged detail view taken from FIG. 8.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view from the front side of a plenum chamber according to one example of the present technology.

FIG. 11 is a view of the plenum chamber shown in FIG. 4.

FIG. 12 is a cross-section taken along line 12-12 of FIG. 11.

FIG. 13 is an enlarged detail view taken from FIG. 12.

FIG. 14 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the plenum connection region.

FIG. 15 is a side view of the patient interface shown in FIG. 11.

FIG. 16 is a cross-section taken along line 16-16 of FIG. 15.

FIG. 17 is an enlarged detail view taken from FIG. 16.

FIG. 18 is a side view of a patient interface in position on a model patient's head without any positioning and stabilising structure shown.

FIG. 19 is a partial, inferior view of a portion of a patient interface in position on a model patient's head accordance with one form of the present technology. Note that only a portion of the positioning and stabilising structure connecting to the frame is shown for clarity.

FIG. 20 is aside view of a plenum connection region of a plenum chamber in accordance with one form of the present technology.

FIG. 21 is a view of a superior portion thereof.

FIG. 22 is an anterior view thereof.

FIG. 23 is an inferior view thereof.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view thereof.

FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view of the connection portion and the frame connection region, wherein the plenum chamber and the frame are not engaged.

FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view of the connection portion and the frame connection region, wherein the plenum chamber and the frame are in contact but not fully engaged.

FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view of the connection portion and the frame connection region, wherein the plenum chamber and the frame are nearly in full engagement with another such that the retention feature is deflected.

FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view of the connection portion and the frame connection region, wherein the plenum chamber and the frame are engaged but separated such that the retention feature is deflected.

FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view of the connection portion and the frame connection region, wherein the plenum chamber and the frame are fully engaged.

FIG. 30 is a rear perspective view of a patient interface according to an example of the present technology with the plenum chamber and seal-forming structure detached.

FIG. 31 is a front perspective view of a patient interface according to an example of the present technology with the plenum chamber and seal-forming structure detached.

FIG. 32 is a rear view of a patient interface according to an example of the present technology with the plenum chamber and seal-forming structure detached.

FIG. 33 is a side view of a patient interface according to an example of the present technology with the plenum chamber and seal-forming structure detached.

FIG. 34 shows a perspective view of a patient interface according to another example of the present technology indicating the attachment of an exemplary seal-forming structure and plenum chamber to a frame of the patient interface.

FIG. 35 shows a cross-sectional view of a patient interface including a mask frame, a flexible joint, and a rigidiser arm according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 36 shows a perspective view of a patient interface including a mask frame, a flexible joint, and a rigidiser arm according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 37 shows an exploded view of a patient interface including a mask frame, a flexible joint, and a rigidiser arm according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 38 shows a detailed view of an end of a rigidiser arm according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 39 shows a perspective view of a patient interface including a mask frame, flexible joints, and rigidiser arms according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 40 shows a cross-sectional view of a patient interface including a mask frame, flexible joints, and rigidiser arms according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 41 shows a perspective view of a rigidiser arm according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 42 shows a cross-sectional view of a patient interface including a mask frame, a flexible joint, and a rigidiser arm according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 43 shows a perspective view of a patient interface including a mask frame, a flexible joint, and a rigidiser arm according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 44 shows an exploded view of a patient interface including a mask frame, a flexible joint, and a rigidiser arm according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 45 shows a detailed view of an end of a rigidiser arm according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 46 shows a detailed view of an end of a rigidiser arm and a flexible joint according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 47 shows a cross-sectional view of a rigidiser and a mask frame according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 48 shows a detailed cross-sectional view of a rigidiser arm and mask frame according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 49 shows a cross-sectional view of rigidiser arms and a mask frame according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 50 shows a perspective view of rigidiser arms and a mask frame according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 51 shows a detailed perspective view of the connection between a rigidiser and a mask frame according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 52 shows a top view of rigidiser arms and a mask frame according to an example of the present technology, and in broken line indicates flexing of the rigidiser arm in a laterally outwards direction in the coronal plane.

FIG. 53 shows a detailed top view of the connection between a rigidiser and a mask frame according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 54 shows a cross-sectional perspective view of rigidiser arms and a mask frame according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 55 shows a side view of a rigidiser and a mask frame according to an example of the present technology, and in broken line indicates flexing of the rigidiser arm in a vertically downward direction in the sagittal plane.

FIG. 56 shows a front view of a rigidiser and a mask frame according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 57 shows a perspective view of rigidiser arms and a mask frame according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 58 shows a partially exploded perspective view of rigidiser arms and a mask frame according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 59 shows a detailed and partially exploded perspective view of a rigidiser and a mask frame according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 60 shows a perspective view of a rigidiser according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 61 shows a view of a rigidiser arm according to an example of the present technology plotted on a grid in an X-Y plane.

FIG. 62 shows a view of a rigidiser arm according to an example of the present technology plotted on a grid in an X-Z plane.

FIG. 63 shows a view of a rigidiser arm according to an example of the present technology plotted on a grid in a Y-Z plane.

FIG. 64 shows a view of a rigidiser arm according to an example of the present technology plotted in three dimensions.

FIG. 65 shows a schematic perspective view of a positioning and stabilising structure in accordance with an example of the present technology.

FIG. 66 shows a cross-sectional view of a positioning and stabilising structure taken along line 66-66 in FIG. 65.

FIG. 67 shows a schematic side view of an exemplary rigidiser arm for a positioning and stabilising structure in accordance with the present technology.

FIG. 68 shows a schematic perspective view of an exemplary positioning and stabilising structure containing a rigidiser arm in accordance with the present technology in a first state.

FIG. 69 shows a schematic perspective view of an exemplary positioning and stabilising structure containing a rigidiser arm in accordance with the present technology in a second state.

FIG. 70 shows a schematic perspective view of an exemplary positioning and stabilising structure containing a rigidiser arm in accordance with the present technology in a third state.

FIG. 71 shows a perspective view of an exemplary positioning and stabilising structure in accordance with the present technology donned on a patient.

FIG. 72 shows a front view of an exemplary positioning and stabilising structure in accordance with the present technology donned on a patient.

FIG. 73 shows a side view of an exemplary positioning and stabilising structure in accordance with the present technology donned on a patient.

FIG. 74 shows a perspective view of an exemplary positioning and stabilising structure in accordance with the present technology donned on a patient.

FIG. 75 shows a front view of an exemplary positioning and stabilising structure in accordance with the present technology donned on a patient.

FIG. 76 shows a side view of an exemplary positioning and stabilising structure in accordance with the present technology donned on a patient.

FIG. 77 shows a downward perspective view of an exemplary positioning and stabilising structure in accordance with the present technology donned on a patient.

FIG. 78 shows a graph of the extension (in mm) of a strap of a positioning and stabilising structure according to an example of the present technology subjected to a range of loads (in Newtons).

FIG. 79 shows a top view of a strap of a positioning and stabilising structure according to an example of the present technology during an intermediate stage of production.

FIG. 80 shows a cross-sectional view taken through line 80-80 of FIG. 79 of a strap of a positioning and stabilising structure according to an example of the present technology during an intermediate stage of production.

FIG. 81 shows a top view of a strap of a positioning and stabilising structure according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 82 shows a top detailed view of a strap of a positioning and stabilising structure according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 83 shows a cross-sectional view taken through line 83-83 of FIG. 81 of a strap of a positioning and stabilising structure according to an example of the present technology.

FIGS. 84 to 88 show a sequence of perspective views of a patient donning a positioning and stabilising structure according to an example of the present technology.

FIGS. 89 to 93 show a sequence of side views of a patient donning a positioning and stabilising structure according to an example of the present technology.

FIGS. 94 to 98 show a sequence of front views of a patient donning a positioning and stabilising structure according to an example of the present technology.

FIGS. 99 to 104 show a sequence of side views of a patient donning a positioning and stabilising structure according to an example of the present technology.

FIGS. 105 to 107 show a sequence of perspective views of a patient adjusting a patient interface according to an example of the present technology.

FIGS. 108 to 112 show a sequence of rear views of a patient adjusting a positioning and stabilising structure according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 113 shows a detailed view of the connection between a strap and a rigidiser arm of a positioning and stabilising structure according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 114 shows another detailed view of the connection between a strap and a rigidiser arm of a positioning and stabilising structure according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 115 shows another detailed view of the connection between a strap and a rigidiser arm of a positioning and stabilising structure according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 116 shows another detailed view of the connection between a strap and a rigidiser arm of a positioning and stabilising structure according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 117 shows another detailed view of the connection between a strap and a rigidiser arm of a positioning and stabilising structure according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 118 shows another detailed view of the connection between a strap and a rigidiser arm of a positioning and stabilising structure according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 119 shows a detailed view of the connection between a strap and a rigidiser arm of a positioning and stabilising structure according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 120 shows another detailed view of the connection between a strap and a rigidiser arm of a positioning and stabilising structure according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 121 shows another detailed view of the connection between a strap and a rigidiser arm of a positioning and stabilising structure according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 122 shows another detailed view of the connection between a strap and a rigidiser arm of a positioning and stabilising structure according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 123 shows a detailed view of a split region of a strap of a positioning and stabilising structure according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 124 shows another detailed view of a split region of a strap of a positioning and stabilising structure according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 125 shows another detailed view of a split region of a strap of a positioning and stabilising structure according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 126 shows a detailed view of a bifurcation of a strap of a positioning and stabilising structure according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 127 shows another detailed view of a bifurcation of a strap of a positioning and stabilising structure according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 128 shows another detailed view of a bifurcation of a strap of a positioning and stabilising structure according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 129 shows another detailed view of a bifurcation of a strap of a positioning and stabilising structure according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 130 shows another detailed view of a bifurcation of a strap of a positioning and stabilising structure according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 131 shows another detailed view of a bifurcation of a strap of a positioning and stabilising structure according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 132 shows a perspective view of a positioning and stabilising structure manufactured according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 133 shows a process of forming a positioning and stabilising structure straps from a continuous roll according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 134 shows a conventional example depicting a knitting process according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 135 shows a conventional example depicting a knitting process according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 136 illustrates a basic warp knitted fabric according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 137 is a schematic representation of the basic warp knitted fabric of FIG. 136.

FIG. 138 illustrates a basic warp knitted fabric according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 139 illustrates a basic weft knitted fabric according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 140 is a side view of a positioning and stabilising structure positioned on a patient's head in accordance with an example of the present technology.

FIG. 141 shows the changing direction of the course or grain of the positioning and stabilising structure of FIG. 140 according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 142 illustrates an increased stretch in the direction of the course of a knitted positioning and stabilising structure according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 143 shows 3D printed links used to form a positioning and stabilising structure according to an example of the present technology

FIG. 144 shows a 3D printed positioning and stabilising structure piece including a rigidiser according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 145 shows a 3D printed positioning and stabilising structure straps and clips according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 146 shows a cross-section of a yarn used for forming a textile.

FIG. 147 shows a textile ribbon disposed over an elastic textile.

FIG. 148A-B illustrate a two-stage moulding process for molding a plastic portion over a textile material.

FIG. 149 is a schematic representation of an elastic textile portion having an over-moulded plastic material.

FIG. 150 is a schematic representation of a textile mask having over-moulded plastic portions.

FIG. 151A-C are schematic representations of a plastic joint over-moulded onto a textile portion of a headgear.

FIG. 152 is schematic representations of a textile headgear having an over-moulded plastic region.

FIG. 153A-C illustrate a first cross-section of a headgear strap having an over-moulded plastic portion.

FIG. 154A-C illustrate a second cross-section of a headgear strap having an over-moulded plastic portion.

FIGS. 154D-F illustrate several variations of over-moulding a plastic portion to a conduit including a textile material.

FIGS. 155A-B illustrate two mechanisms of testing the integrity of an over-moulded component.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLES OF THE TECHNOLOGY

Before the present technology is described in further detail, it is to be understood that the technology is not limited to the particular examples described herein, which may vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used in this disclosure is for the purpose of describing only the particular examples discussed herein, and is not intended to be limiting.

Treatment Systems

In one form, the present technology comprises apparatus for treating a respiratory disorder. The apparatus may comprise a flow generator or blower for supplying pressurised respiratory gas, such as air, to the patient 1000 via an air circuit 4170 leading to a patient interface 3000, as shown in FIG. 1 a.

Therapy

In one form, the present technology comprises a method for treating a respiratory disorder comprising the step of applying positive pressure to the entrance of the airways of a patient 1000.

Nasal CPAP for OSA

In one form, the present technology comprises a method of treating Obstructive Sleep Apnea in a patient by applying nasal continuous positive airway pressure to the patient.

Patient Interface 3000

Referring to FIG. 166, a non-invasive patient interface 3000 in accordance with one aspect of the present technology comprises the following functional aspects: a seal-forming structure 3100 (see, e.g., FIG. 4), a plenum chamber 3200, a positioning and stabilising structure 3300 and a connection port 3600 for connection to a short tube 4180 of the air circuit 4170. In some forms a functional aspect may be provided by one or more physical components. In some forms, one physical component may provide one or more functional aspects. In use the seal-forming structure 3100 is arranged to surround an entrance to the airways of the patient 1000 so as to facilitate the supply of air at positive pressure to the airways.

Seal-Forming Structure 3100

In one form of the present technology, the seal-forming structure 3100 provides a sealing-forming surface, and may additionally provide a cushioning function.

A seal-forming structure 3100 in accordance with the present technology may be constructed from a soft, flexible, resilient material such as silicone. The seal-forming structure 3100 may form part of a sealed path for air from a PAP device to be delivered to the nares of the patient.

Referring to FIG. 9, in one form of the present technology, the seal-forming structure 3100 may comprise a sealing flange 3110 and a support flange 3120. The sealing flange 3110 may comprise a relatively thin member with a thickness of less than about 1 mm, for example about 0.25 mm to about 0.45 mm. The support flange 3120 may be relatively thicker than the sealing flange 3110. The support flange 3120 is or includes a spring-like element and functions to support the sealing flange 3110 from buckling in use. In use the sealing flange 3110 can readily respond to system pressure in the plenum chamber 3200 acting on its underside to urge it into tight sealing engagement with the face, e.g., the patient's nares. The plenum chamber 3200 is made from a floppy material such as silicone.

Nasal Pillows

In one form of the present technology, the seal-forming structure 3100 of the non-invasive patient interface 3000 comprises a pair of nasal puffs, or a pair of nasal pillows 3130, each nasal puff or nasal pillow being constructed and arranged to form a seal with a respective naris of the nose of a patient, e.g. by forming a seal against a peripheral region of the nares of the patient.

Nasal pillows 3130 (FIG. 9) in accordance with an aspect of the present technology include: a frusto-cone 3140, at least a portion of which forms a seal on an underside of the patient's nose e.g. a frusto-cone portion; a stalk 3150, an upper flexible region 3142 on the underside of the frusto-cone 3140 and connecting the frusto-cone to the stalk 3150. In addition, the structure to which the nasal pillow 3130 of the present technology is connected includes a lower flexible region 3152 adjacent the base of the stalk 3150. Upper flexible region 3142 and lower flexible region 3152 can act in concert to facilitate a universal joint structure that is accommodating of relative movement—both displacement and angular—of the frusto-cone 3140 and the structure to which the nasal pillow 3130 is connected. In one example, the frusto-cone 3140 may be co-axial with stalk 3150 to which it is connected. In another example, the frusto-cone 3140 and the stalk 3150 may not be co-axial (e.g., offset). The nasal pillows 3130 may be dimensioned and/or shaped such that they extend out laterally beyond the walls of the plenum chamber 3200, discussed below.

In one form of the present technology, each stalk 3150 may comprise a variable stiffness so as to prevent the nasal pillows 3130 from rocking forward during use due to compression and/or bending of the stalk 3150. For example, the side of the stalk 3150 that is distal from the face of the patient in use may be stiffer than the region of the stalk 3150 proximal to the face of the patient. In other words, different material stiffness on opposing sides of the stalk 3150 presents more resistance if compression or bending of the stalk 3150 is not in a predetermined direction. This enables even compression of the pillows 3130 onto nares by preventing the pillows 3130 from rocking forward. Such an arrangement may be helpful in resisting buckling of the stalk 3150 that results in the nasal pillows 3130 rocking forward. The variable stiffness may also be used to provide a weak point about which rocking is facilitated such that the stalks 3150 buckle in a desired direction. In other words, even compression of the nasal pillows 3130 may be achieved. This arrangement may also allow the sealing force to be localized at the top of the nasal pillows 3130. Additionally, this arrangement may also allow any deflection of the nasal pillows 3130 to be cantered thereon. The nasal pillows 3130 may also be formed to compress against the plenum chamber 3200 when urged against the face of the patient and because the nasal pillows 3130 may be laterally wider than the plenum chamber, no portion of the plenum chamber 3200 extends beyond the pillows 3130. In another example, when compressed, the nasal pillows 3130 may be shaped and/or dimensioned so that their periphery is generally flush with the periphery of the plenum chamber 3200. In a further example of the technology, the stalks 3150 may be thinnest at the base of the frusto-cone 3140.

In an example, to engage the pillows 3130 with the entrance to the patient's airways, the pillows 3130 are placed at the entry to the nares. As the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 is adjusted, tension begins to pull the pillows 3130 into the nares. Continued insertion of the pillows 3130 into the nares causes the stalk 3150 to collapse via trampoline 3131 moving the base of pillows 3130 towards the upper surface of the plenum chamber 3200. The stalks 3150 of the nasal pillows 3130 may be connected to the plenum chamber 3200 and comprise thinned, or reduced thickness, portions. The thinned portions allow the pillows 3130 to easily spring, or trampoline, and therefore adjust to suit the alar angle of the patient 1000 more readily. The trampoline 3131 may be angled away from the bottom of the pillows 3130 or a septum and/or upper lip of the patient 1000. This improves the comfort and stability of the patient interface device 3000.

It is also envisioned that a variety of sizes of nasal pillows 3130 may be used with plenum chambers having a commonly sized connection region and plenum connection region. This has the advantage of allowing the patient to be fitted with a plenum chamber 3200 and pillows 3130 sized to best fit that patient's particular anatomy, e.g., size and orientation of the nares.

In one form of the present technology the seal-forming structure 3100 forms a seal at least in part on a columella region of a patient's nose.

Nasal Cushion

While a small portion of a nasal pillow 3130 may enter a nose in use, an alternative form of seal-forming structure 3100 is substantially external of the nose in use. In one form of the present technology, shown in FIG. 34, the seal-forming structure 3100 of the non-invasive patient interface 3000 is constructed and arranged to form a seal against the patient's airways that surrounds both nares without being partially located inside the nose. The seal-forming structure 3100 serves both nares with a single orifice, e.g. a nasal cushion or nasal cradle. In FIG. 34 the seal-forming structure 3100 according to the depicted example includes a nasal flange 3101 disposed about its periphery. This view also indicates the attachment of the plenum chamber 3200 and seal-forming structure 3100 to the frame 3310.

Plenum Chamber 3200

Plenum chamber 3200 in accordance with an aspect of one form of the present technology functions to allow air flow between the two nares and the supply of air from PAP device 4000 via a short tube 4180. The short tube 4180 is typically part of the air circuit 4170 that connects to the frame 3310 via a connection port 3600 and a longer tube (additional gas delivery tube) 4178 connected to the PAP device 4000. In this way the plenum chamber 3200 may function alternatively as an inlet manifold during an inhalatory portion of a breathing cycle, and/or an exhaust manifold during an exhalatory portion of a breathing cycle.

Plenum chamber 3200 may be constructed from an elastomeric material.

Plenum chamber 3200, in accordance with another aspect of one form of the present technology, provides a cushioning function between the seal-forming structure 3100 and the positioning and stabilising structure 3300.

Whilst in one form of the plenum chamber 3200, the inlet/outlet manifold and cushioning functions are performed by the same physical component, in an alternative form of the present technology, they are formed by two or more components.

The seal-forming structure 3100 and the plenum chamber 3200 may be formed, e.g. moulded, as a single and unitary component.

Plenum chamber 3200 comprises an anterior wall 3210 and a posterior wall 3220.

Posterior wall 3220 comprises posterior surface 3222 (see FIG. 8). In one form of the present technology, the seal-forming structure 3100 is constructed and arranged relative to the posterior wall 3220 so that in use, the posterior surface 3222 is spaced from a patient's septum and/or upper lip, as can be seen in FIGS. 18 and 19. In one form, e.g. when the seal-forming structure 3100 includes nasal pillows 3130, this is achieved by arranging the posterior wall 3220 so that the posterior surface 3222 is anterior to a most posterior portion 3130.1 of the nasal pillow 3130, as shown in FIG. 8 by the posterior surface 3222. This arrangement may also focus the sealing force on the nares of the patient 1000 because the septum and/or upper lip is relieved of contact with the patient interface 3000.

The plenum chamber 3200 also comprises a flexing region 3230 (FIG. 9), which forms a connection with seal-forming structure 3100. The flexing region 3230 may be a distinct region from the anterior wall 3210 and/or the posterior wall 3220. Alternatively some or all of the respective anterior wall 3210 and posterior wall 3220 may form part of flexing region 3230. In one form of the present technology where the seal-forming structure 3100 comprises respective left and right nasal pillows 3130, there is a corresponding respective left flexing region 3232 and right flexing region 3234 (FIG. 4). Flexing regions 3230, 3232, and 3234 are constructed and arranged to bend and/or flex in response to a force encountered in use of the patient interface 3000, e.g., a tube drag force, or a movement of the patient's head, e.g., pushing the patient interface 3000 against a bed pillow. Flexing region 3230, left flexing region 3232, and/or right flexing region 3234 may be constructed from a silicone rubber, e.g., with a Type A indentation hardness in the range of about 35 to about 45. However, a wider range is possible if the thickness of the walls 3210, 3220 are adjusted accordingly to obtain a similar level of force.

Another aspect of the present technology that may be seen in FIGS. 4, 7, 8, 10 and 11, that the plenum chamber 3200 has a saddle or decoupling region 3236. As can be seen in FIG. 4, the flexing region 3230 may comprise the decoupling region 3236, which may be located between the left flexing region 3232 and the right flexing region 3234. The decoupling region 3236 may be concave in shape and may span from the anterior wall 3210 to the posterior wall 3220. By forming the plenum chamber 3200 with the decoupling region 3236 as described, it may be possible to decouple the left flexing region 3232 from the right flexing region 3234 such that movement in one of the flexing regions does not substantially affect the other flexing region. In other words, deformation and/or buckling of the left flexing region 3232 may not cause a disruption to the right flexing region 3234 and vice versa. Advantageously, this may allow the nasal pillow 3130 associated with the undisturbed flexing region to remain in position on the patient's corresponding naris in spite of a disruption to the other flexing region. The decoupling region 3236, by being recessed between the stalks 3150, may avoid contact with the septum. Also, the decoupling region 3236 may be the thinnest region of the plenum chamber 3200 to allow for the desired amount of flexibility in this region. Alternatively, the decoupling region 3236 may be the thickest region of the plenum chamber 3200. By providing the saddle region 3236 with a deep curvature, septum and/or upper lip contact may be minimised or avoided to improve patient comfort. The saddle region 3236 may be U or V shaped and has a nasolabial angle at its peak of about 70 to about 120°. The saddle region 3236 may be about 0.5 mm to about 2.5 mm in depth for clearance around the patient's septum.

Posterior wall 3220 may be arranged, in use of patient interface 3000, adjacent the superior or upper lip of the patient, as in FIGS. 18 and 19.

In one form, the plenum chamber 3200 may further comprise a sealing lip 3250 (FIG. 6). Sealing lip 3250 may be constructed from a flexible resilient material, e.g. silicone rubber with a type A hardness in a range of about 30 to about 50, forming a relatively soft component. Sealing lip 3250 may be located on or formed as part of an interior surface or interior periphery of plenum chamber 3200, or an entire interior peripheral region of plenum chamber 3200, as shown in FIGS. 5, 6 and 8. However, it is also envisioned that the sealing lip 3250 may be disposed about an exterior surface or exterior periphery of the plenum chamber 3200, or an entire exterior peripheral region of plenum chamber 3200. Sealing lip 3250 may form a pneumatic seal between plenum chamber 3200 and frame 3310, as will be described in greater detail below. Sealing lip 3250 and plenum chamber 3200 may also comprise one piece. Other patient interface devices form the pneumatic seal between the plenum chamber and frame using a compression seal to compress the plenum chamber made from a resiliently deformable material such as silicone to engage the plenum chamber to the frame and create the pneumatic seal at the same time. In contrast, one example of the present technology, forms a pneumatic seal when the plenum chamber 3200 is initially secured to the frame 3100 by interference from the sealing lip 3250 deflecting against the frame 3310. When pressure within the plenum chamber 3200 is increased above atmospheric pressure for treating breathing disorders, the pneumatic seal is strengthened and increases the sealing force as the sealing lip 3250 is urged with greater force against the frame 3310. The air pressure within the cushion/plenum chamber of these other patient interface devices does not influence the sealing force between the cushion and the frame. Also, these other patient interface devices have a cushion with side walls for engagement with the frame and sealing lips that are floppy because they readily conform to finger pressure, are not rigid, and are able to be stretched or bent elastically with little effort. In particular, due to the size and aspect ratio of a nasal cushion being relatively large, this contributes to the floppiness of the cushion. The side walls for frame engagement are so floppy that opposing sides of the cushion are able to be pinched together and brought into contact with each other with very little finger force. This ease of deformation of the side walls for frame engagement may be the primary source of difficulty for patients with arthritic hands to quickly connect the cushion to the frame in these other patient interfaces. It should also be understood that by forming the plenum chamber 3200 features discussed above with sufficient stiffness it may be possible to improve the stability of the seal made by the seal-forming structure. Furthermore, it may be possible to vary the thickness of the plenum chamber 3200 such that it becomes thinner from a plenum connection region 3240 to the seal-forming structure 3100. In one example of the present technology, the plenum chamber 3200 may be about 2-3 mm thick near or at the plenum connection region 3240, 1 mm thick at a point between the plenum connection region 3240 and the seal-forming structure 3100, and 0.75 mm thick near or at the seal-forming structure 3100. Forming the plenum chamber 3200 with these features may be accomplished by injection molding manufacturing. This gradual reduction in thickness of the plenum chamber 3200 enables greater deformability of silicone material closer to the stalks 3150 and patient's nose to enhance comfort and reduce the likelihood of seal disruption.

Some nasal pillow patient interfaces have an assembled order of (i), plenum chamber, (ii) headgear connection, and (iii) seal-forming structure. In contrast, one example of the patient interface 3000 of the present technology has an assembled order of (i) headgear connection, (ii) plenum chamber, and (iii) seal-forming structure. This difference in arrangement means that headgear tension does not cause deformation of the plenum chamber 3200 and the seal-forming structure 3100 which may lead to disruption of sealing forces.

Frame 3310

Frame 3310 functions as a central hub, as shown in FIGS. 4, 10, 75, 76 and 166, to which the short tube 4180, plenum chamber 3200 and positioning and stabilising structure 3300 are connected, either in a removable fashion or a more permanent fashion.

FIGS. 31 to 33 also show various views of the frame 3310 connected to the positioning and stabilising structure 3300, having straps 3301, via a flexible joint 3305. These views show the frame 3310 without the plenum chamber 3200 and the seal-forming structure 3100. The connection port 3600 and the vent 3400, both described in greater detail below, may be disposed on the frame 3310.

In one example of the technology, the frame 3310 may be formed from polypropylene.

In another example of the technology, the frame 3310 may be made in one size but the plenum chamber 3200 and seal-forming structure 3100 may be made in multiple sizes that are attachable to the single frame by commonly sized connections features as described herein.

In an example of the technology the frame 3310 may be molded without any undercuts such that it may be molded and then removed from the mold tool without flexing.

Connection Between Plenum Chamber and Frame

In one form of the present technology, plenum chamber 3200 is removably attachable to frame 3310, e.g., to facilitate cleaning, or to change for a differently sized seal-forming structure 3100. This may permit the plenum chamber 3200 to be washed and cleaned more often than the frame 3310 and short tube 4180. Also, it may permit the plenum chamber 3200 to be washed and cleaned separately from the strap 3301. In an alternative form, plenum chamber 3200 is not readily removable from frame 3310.

Plenum chamber 3200 may comprise the plenum connection region 3240 (FIG. 6). A retaining structure 3242 of the plenum connection region 3240 has a shape and/or configuration that is complementary to a shape and/or configuration of a corresponding frame connection region 3312 (FIG. 10). The retaining structure 3242 of the plenum chamber 3200 is more rigid than the other parts of the plenum chamber 3200, and may be made from the same material as the frame 3310, for example, polypropylene or polyamide such as Rilsan®. In other examples, the plenum connection region 3240 may be made from nylon, and the frame 3310 made from polypropylene. Nylon, polyamide and polypropylene are not floppy materials and do not readily conform to finger pressure. Therefore, when they are engaged to each other, there is an audible click and a hard to hard connection. The shape of the retaining structure 3242 is depicted in FIGS. 20 to 24 in the form resembling a parabolic cylinder or hyperbolic cylinder. The retaining structure 3242 is not stretchable and inextensible in order to maintain its general shape as it engages and disengages from the frame 3310. The shape of the retaining structure 3242 allows a slight degree of flexing but not to the extent that opposite sides of the retaining structure 3242 are able to touch each other if pinched together with finger pressure. In other words, the opposite sides of the retaining structure 3242 can only be brought into contact together with significant pinching force intended by the patient 1000 which would not occur under normal therapy circumstances. In the illustrated example, the top and bottom edges of the retaining structure 3242 are able to be pinched closer together/more easily together than the side edges of the retaining structure 3242 using the same amount of pinching force. As can be seen in FIG. 18, the curvature of the frame 3310 and retaining structure 3242 is intended to follow the natural curvature of patient's upper lip and may avoid concentration of contact pressure on any specific point of the patient's upper lip such that contact pressure from headgear tension is evenly spread over the patient's upper lip. This may minimise or eliminate skin breakdown caused by prolonged concentrated contact pressure. Another advantage for the curvature is that less material is required for the plenum chamber 3200 compared to a flat frame. A flat frame would result in more material for the plenum chamber 3200 at the side edges in order for the plenum chamber 3200 to conform to the patient's upper lip. Less material leads to an overall weight reduction for the patient interface 3000. The curvature also minimises any protrusion of the patient interface 3000 in the anterior direction from the patient's face which improves the unobtrusiveness of the patient interface 3000. Also, the retaining structure 3242 may be glued (e.g. using an adhesive) onto the plenum chamber 3200, according to an example of the technology, after molding. In another example, an integral chemical bond (molecular adhesion) may be utilized between the retaining structure 3242 and the plenum chamber 3200.

In an example of the technology, the retaining structure 3242 may be molded without any undercuts such that it may be molded and then removed from the mold tool without flexing. The retaining structure 3242 has a continuous peripheral edge on an anterior side that contacts the frame 3310. This continuous peripheral edge is exposed so that it makes contact with the frame 3310 for engagement in a hard to hard manner. This is in contrast to a majority soft to hard connection where in some prior masks there is an anterior lip portion of the seal-forming structure that covers and overlaps the majority of a detachable rigid retaining structure. The anterior lip portion is made from LSR and wraps over the retaining structure to hold it together. However, in such prior masks, it is difficult and cumbersome to wrap the anterior lip portion over a detachable clip and possible for the clip to be misplaced which would then result in the inability of connecting the seal-forming structure to the frame.

One purpose of the retaining structure 3242 is to align the plenum chamber 3200 when engaging with the frame 3310 because the shape of the retaining structure 3242 of the plenum chamber 3200 is retained (possibly at varied depths) in a space defined between the frame connection region 3312 and interfering portion 3314 of the frame 3310 (FIG. 29).

Another purpose of the retaining structure 3242 is to retain the plenum chamber 3200 to the frame 3310 by preventing relative lateral and vertical relative movement between these two parts. Plenum connection region 3240 may comprise at least one retention feature 3244, and there may be at least one complementary frame connection region 3312. Plenum connection region 3240 may comprise one or more retention features 3244 (FIG. 10). In addition to preventing relative lateral and vertical movement between the plenum chamber 3200 and the frame 3310, another purpose of the retention features 3244 is to prevent relative longitudinal movement between these two parts. The remaining portion of plenum chamber 3200 may comprise a more flexible material than the retaining structure 3242 and plenum connection region 3240.

In one form, plenum connection region 3240 is constructed from a rigid or semi-rigid material, e.g. high durometer silicone or TPE, plastic, nylon, a temperature resistant material, polypropylene, and/or polycarbonate. Plenum connection region 3240 may be constructed from a different material to other portions of plenum chamber 3200. For example plenum connection region 3240 may be a separate component that is permanently connected, integrally bonded or mechanically interlocked with connection portion 3202 (FIG. 10) of the plenum chamber 3200. Turning to FIG. 6, the connection portion 3202 of the plenum chamber 3200 may has substantially the same thickness as the retaining structure 3242 of the plenum connection region 3240. Plenum connection region 3240 may include a tongue portion 3211 constructed and arranged to be matingly received by a channel portion 3211.1, e.g., a channel portion of a frame 3310. In this way, the channel portion 3211.1 may form a mating feature for the tongue portion 3211, and vice versa. Also, the tongue portion 3211 and the channel portion 3211.1 may be dimensioned to maximize the sealing surface area in this region.

Attachment and Removal of Plenum Chamber from Frame

The plenum chamber 3200 may be fixedly attached to the frame 3310, but it also may be removably attached to the frame 3310. FIG. 12 shows the plenum chamber 3200 in a connected position relative to the frame 3310. Plenum connection region 3240 includes in this example only two retention features 3244, which are positioned on opposite sides of the connection region 3240, e.g., on the posterior and anterior sides. FIGS. 12 and 13 shows a cross-section that passes through both barbs 3246, while FIG. 17 shows another cross-section where the barbs 3246 are not present, forming e.g. a channel or groove 3211.1. The resilient barbs 3246 are a type of snap-in compression-fit member to provide a high retention force (to prevent accidental disengagement) and also enable relatively easy intentional removal. In FIG. 17, the plenum connection region 3240 and the frame 3310 simply fit together in a tongue and groove like manner. The frame 3310 and retaining structure 3242 may be shaped so that the tongue portion 3211 and the channel portion 3211.1 engage before the retention features 3244 engage with the frame. This may help align the retention features 3244 for connection.

Each retention feature 3244 may take the form of a barb 3246 (FIGS. 6 and 13) having a leading surface 3246.1 and a trailing surface 3246.2. The leading surface 3246.1 is adapted to engage a lead-in surface 3312.1 of the frame connection region 3312 of the frame 3310, as the plenum chamber 3200 and the frame 3310 are moved into engagement with one another. As the retention feature 3244 is pushed into position it deforms. Also, upper and lower regions of the frame connection region 3312 and interfering portion 3314 of the frame 3310 may also slightly deform. Also, the retaining structure 3242 may also slightly deform especially near the retention feature 3244 (for example, see broken line in FIGS. 27 and 28).

As can be seen in FIG. 13, the surfaces of the barb 3246 and the frame connection region 3312 are angled in certain manners to facilitate sliding connection between the plenum chamber 3200 and the frame 3310. For example, as stated above, the leading surface 3246.1 and the lead-in surface 3312.1 may be formed with angles corresponding to one another such that these to surfaces may slidingly engage with one another with relative ease. Similarly, the trailing surface 3246.2 and the retaining surface 3312.2 may be angled relative to one another to help retain the frame 3310 and the plenum chamber 3200 once connected. The angles between the trailing surface 3246.2 and the retaining surface 3312.2 are selected such that a pulling force applied, e.g., generally along the axis of the nasal pillows 3130, is sufficient to cause the barb 3246 to flex inwardly to thereby release the plenum chamber 3200 from the frame 3310. This pulling force does not require the patient 1000 to first deflect the barbs 3246 radially inwards, e.g., by squeezing the plenum chamber 3200 in an anterior-posterior direction. Rather, due to the angles involved, the radial deflection of the barbs 3246 occurs solely as a result of the axial pulling force applied. In one example of the present technology, the plenum connection region 3240 is deflected and disassembly of the plenum chamber 3200 from the frame 3310 is performed by pinching the plenum chamber 3200 and pulling the plenum chamber 3200 away from the frame 3310.

As can be seen in FIG. 13, the plenum chamber 3200 is attached to the frame 3310 via the plenum connection region 3240 and the retention feature 3244 is engaged with the frame connection region 3312 by the barb 3246. Also shown in this view, the retaining surface 3312.2 of the frame connection region 3312 and the trailing surface 3246.2 of the barb 3246 are engaged and flush with one another. For the patient to detach the plenum chamber 3200 from the frame 3310 the patient must pull the plenum chamber 3200 with respect to the frame 3310 with sufficient force to overcome the resistance of the retaining surface 3312.2 against the trailing surface 3246.2. In one example of the present technology, pinching the plenum chamber 3200 reduces the axial pulling force required to detach the plenum chamber 3200 from the frame 3310. This resistance can be “tuned” or selectively adjusted to a desired level by varying the angle at which these surfaces 3312.2, 3246.2 engage with one another. The closer to perpendicular these surfaces 3312.2, 3246.2 are with respect to the direction of the force applied by the patient 1000 to detach the plenum chamber 3200 from the frame 3310, the greater the force required to cause the detachment. This angle is shown as in FIG. 14, where the trailing surface 3246.2 is angled with respect to a nominal vertical axis 3246.4 (corresponding to axial pull direction of plenum chamber 3200 to the frame 3310). As is increased, the force required to detach the plenum chamber 3200 from the frame 3310 rises. Furthermore, as β increases the detachment will feel more abrupt to the patient 1000. In one example, an angle β of approximately 75 degrees has been found to generate a comfortable feel of detachment for the patient. In further examples, β may vary from 30 to 110 degrees or from 40 to 90 degrees or from 65 to 85 degrees to generate an ideal level of resistance to detachment. This has been selected to minimise the likelihood of accidental detachment, and to only permit intentional detachment by the patient 1000.

Angle α, the angle between the nominal vertical axis 3246.4 and the leading surface 3246.1, can likewise be “tuned” or selectively adjusted to require a specific level of force when the patient 1000 attaches the plenum chamber 3200 to the frame 3310. As angle α is increased, the force required to engage the retention feature 3244 with the frame connection region 3312 increases and the feeling of attachment for the patient engaging these components 3244, 3312 becomes more abrupt. In other words, as the leading surface 3246.1 of the retention feature 3244 slides along the lead-in surface 3312.1 of the frame connection region 3312 the user may experience a smoother feel of engagement as angle α decreases. In one example, an angle α of approximately 30 degrees has been found to generate a comfortable feel of attachment for the patient 1000. In further examples, angle α may vary from 50 to 70 degrees or from 15 to 60 degrees to generate an ideal level of resistance to attachment.

Furthermore, since the feel and force of engagement and disengagement of the plenum chamber 3200 and frame connection region 3312 can be tuned or selectively adjusted independently of one another, angles α and β may be chosen to cause the patient to feel a level of resistance to attachment that is different from the level of resistance of detachment. In one example of the technology, angles α and β may be chosen such that angle β is greater than angle α, such that the patient feels less resistance to attachment of the plenum chamber 3200 and frame 3310 than resistance to detachment. In other words, it may feel harder for the patient to disconnect the plenum chamber 3200 from the frame 3310 than to connect them.

As can be seen in FIG. 4, one example of the technology includes a pair of retention features 3244, 3245. Also shown in this view, the exemplary retention features 3244, 3245 are differently sized. Particularly, this view shows that the retention feature 3245 disposed on an anterior portion of the plenum connection region 3240 is narrower than the retention feature 3244 disposed on the posterior portion of the plenum connection region 3240. By sizing the retention features 3244 differently, the patient 1000 is only able to attach the plenum chamber 3240 to the frame 3310 in one orientation. Such an arrangement is shown in FIG. 10. This avoids patient frustration during attachment, minimises damage to the patient interface 3000 that may arise from incorrect attachment, ensures the seal-forming structure 3100 is in the correct orientation to provide a proper seal against the patient's airways and provide comfort by reducing or avoiding contact with a septum and/or an upper lip of the patient 1000.

In FIG. 10 two frame connection regions 3312, 3313 are shown in engagement with corresponding retention features 3244, 3245. The example depicted here shows that the narrower anterior retention feature 3245 is sized to correspond to the narrower anterior frame connection region 3313. Also, the wider posterior retention feature 3312 is engaged with the correspondingly sized posterior frame connection region 3244. An arrangement such as this, where one retention feature is uniquely dimensioned to engage with a corresponding uniquely dimensioned frame connection region, has the advantage that the patient will only be able to attach the plenum chamber 3240 to the frame 3310 in one orientation. By limiting the orientations of attachment, the patient 1000 is prevented from assembling the patient interface 3000 improperly and receiving suboptimal therapy due to an improperly assembled patient interface 3000. The arrangement described with respect to this particular example of the technology is advantageous to the patient 1000 that may have difficulty seeing how to correctly engage the components due to vision problems or the patient 1000 who may be assembling the patient interface 3000 in a dark room, e.g., the bedroom before sleep, because the patient 1000 will only be able to completely assemble the patient interface 3000 if the components are properly aligned.

As described above, the angles of the leading surface 3246.1 and the trailing surface 3246.2 on the barb 3246 are important to providing an optimum amount of resistance to assembly and disassembly of the patient interface 3000. Also described above is the benefit of sizing respective retention features 3244, 3245 and frame connection regions 3312, 3313 correspondingly such that a proper orientation of the components is ensured upon assembly Properly dimensioning the retention features 3244, 3245 and the frame connection regions 3312, 3313 may help to guide the plenum chamber 3200 onto the frame 3310. In other words, the frame connection regions 3312, 3313 and the retention features 3244, 3245 may be dimensioned in close conformity to one another such that the perimeter of the frame connection regions and the perimeter of the retention features 3244 to aid in directing and aligning the retention feature 3244 into the frame connection region 3312. This may be beneficial to a patient with limited dexterity due to a disease (e.g., arthritis) or a patient assembling the patient interface 3000 where visibility is diminished whether in a dark bedroom prior to sleep or due to limited vision. Also, by dimensioning the retention features 3244, 3245 and the frame connection regions 3312, 3313 in close conformity to one another this serve to ensure that the seal between the plenum chamber 3200 and the frame 3310 is maintained by facilitating a secure connection between these two components. Additionally, close conformity between the retention features 3244, 3245 and the frame connection regions 3312, 3313 may serve to facilitate equal alignment of the plenum chamber 3200 on the frame 3310. In one example of the present technology a difference of 0.3 mm to 2 mm may be incorporated between the retention features 3244, 3245 and the frame connection regions 3312, 3313.

It should also be understood that connection between the frame 3310 and the plenum chamber 3200 described above and below may be used with other types of masks. Such features may be applicable to nasal or full-face masks as well. Masks that seal under the bridge of the nose, such as compact nasal masks or compact full-face masks, may also incorporate the connection features described herein. Furthermore, masks that lack a forehead support may also include these connection features. It is also envisioned that examples of the present technology that include masks that seal below the tip of the nose, such as those with nasal pillows 3130 or a nasal cradle/nasal flange 3101, may also use these connection features.

Plenum Chamber and Frame Attachment and Removal Sequence

FIGS. 25 to 29 show a sequence of cross-sectional views of the connection portion 3202 of the plenum chamber 3200 and the frame connection region 3312 of the frame 3310. These sequential views show the process of attachment of the plenum chamber 3200 to the frame 3310. While these views show only the attachment of one retention feature 3244 to one frame connection region 3312, it should be understood that there may be more than one retention feature 3244 and more than one frame connection region 3312, as can be seen in FIG. 10 and discussed above. Therefore, during the attachment sequence of the plenum chamber 3200 and the frame 3310 there may be more than one instance of the depicted attachment sequence taking place to accomplish complete attachment of the plenum chamber 3200 and the frame 3312.

FIG. 25 shows a cross-sectional view of the connection portion 3202 of the plenum chamber 3200 and the frame connection region 3312 of the frame 3310 where the connection portion 3202 and the frame connection region 3312 are near one another but not in contact. The arrow indicates that the connection portion 3202 and the frame connection region 3312 are being brought together. It should be understood that for these views additional portions of the plenum chamber 3200 and the frame 3310 have not been included in the interest of simplicity. Thus, it should also be understood that frame connection region 3312 and interfering portion 3314 of the frame connection region 3312 are both part of the frame 3310 as can be seen, for example, in FIG. 13. Moreover, it should be understood then that the frame connection portion 3312 and the interfering portion 3314 of the frame connection portion 3312 will move relative to one another through the attachment sequence. Returning to FIG. 25, this view shows that the sealing lip 3250 is not deformed and the retention feature 3244 is not deformed as neither of these components 3250, 3244 are in contact with the frame 3310.

FIG. 26 shows the barb 3246 of the retention feature 3244 beginning to make contact with the frame connection region 3312 of the frame 3310. Specifically, this view shows the leading surface 3246.1 of the barb 3246 in contact with the lead-in surface 3312.1 of the frame connection region 3312. In this view, the retention feature 3244 and the frame connection region 3312 are only just coming into contact with one another such that the retention feature 3244 is not deflected. Also, the sealing lip 3250 has not been deflected because it is not yet in contact with the interfering portion 3314 of the frame connection region 3312. As described above, the angle α of the leading surface 3246.1 will begin to affect the resistance the user will feel to engagement of the plenum chamber 3200 and the frame connection region 3312 because the leading surface 3246.1 will begin to engage in frictional contact with the lead-in surface 3312.1.

FIG. 27 shows the plenum chamber 3200 and the frame 3310 further along in the attachment sequence such that the retention feature 3244 is deflected by contact with the frame connection region 3312. As can be seen in this view, the frame connection region 3312 and the interfering portion 3314 of the frame connection region 3312 are nearer to the connection portion 3202. Also shown in this view, the leading surface 3246.1 of the barb 3246 is in contact with a portion of the lead-in surface 3312.1 that is closer to the retaining surface 3312.2. In other words, the barb 3246 can be seen having moved closer to attachment with the frame connection region 3312 and having moved relative to the position shown in FIG. 26. As described earlier, the connection portion 3202 and the plenum connection region 3240 of the plenum chamber 3200 may also be deflected from a pinching force generated by the patient 1000. FIG. 27 also indicates that the retention feature 3244 has been deflected by contact with the frame connection region 3312 and the dashed lines show the outline of the retention feature 3244 in an undeformed state. FIG. 27 also shows that the sealing lip 3250 is not yet in contact with the interfering portion 3314 of the frame connection region 3312, and, therefore, the sealing lip 3250 is not deformed. Although, not shown in this view it should also be understood that the frame connection region 3312 may deflect away from the retention feature 3244 due to the force of these parts 3312, 3244 being forced together.

In FIG. 28 the plenum chamber 3200 and the frame 3310 are nearly attached and the retention feature 3244 is nearly completely engaged with the frame connection region 3312. In this view the retention feature 3244 is still deformed but the barb 3246 is in contact with a different portion of the frame connection region 3312. Specifically, the trailing surface 3246.2 of the barb 3246 is now in contact with the retaining surface 3312.2 of the frame connection region 3312. Also, due to the fact that the angle at which the trailing surface 3246.2 and the retaining surface 3312.2 contact one another, the retention feature 3244 and the frame connection region 3312 may be urged into engagement by the inherent tendency of the deflected retention feature 3244 to return to its undeformed state, in effect drawing these parts together after a certain insertion distance is reached. FIG. 28 also shows the outline of the retention feature 3244 in an undeformed state with dashed lines. Also in this view it can be seen that the sealing lip 3250 is in contact with the interfering portion 3314 of the frame connection region 3312. At this point in the attachment sequence a seal may begin to be formed by the contact of the sealing lip 3250 and the interfering portion 3314 of the frame connection region 3312. The sealing lip 3250 may also be slightly deflected by contact against the interfering portion 3314 of the frame connection region 3312.

FIG. 29 shows the plenum chamber 3200 and the frame 3310 fully attached by engagement of the barb 3246 of the retention feature 3244 with the frame connection region 3312. In this view the retaining surface 3312.2 may be relatively flush against the trailing surface 3246.2. The retention feature 3244 may also no longer be deflected by contact with the frame connection region 3312. The retention feature's 3244 return to an undeformed state from its deflected or deformed state, as shown in FIG. 28, may generate an audible click as the barb 3246 and the retention feature 3244 move to the position shown in FIG. 29 from the position shown in FIG. 28. This re-assuring audible click may be advantageous in that it provides the patient 1000 with feedback that the plenum chamber 3200 and the frame 3310 are fully engaged. By providing the patient 1000 with this feedback upon completion of engagement the patient 1000 may be able to use the patient interface 3000 with confidence that the plenum chamber 3200 and the frame 3310 are securely attached and will not separate while the patient 1000 is asleep and receiving therapy.

Furthermore, a desired level of sealing contact may be achieved when the plenum chamber 3200 and the frame 3310 are attached as shown in FIG. 29. The sealing lip 3250 can be seen deflected against the interfering portion 3314 of the frame connection region 3312. By being deflected as shown, the sealing lip 3250 may be urging itself against the interfering portion 3314 of the frame connection region 3312 with sufficient force due to the tendency of the sealing lip 3250 to return to its undeformed state such that a desired seal is generated between these components. Furthermore, as air pressure within the plenum chamber 3200 increases when therapy is applied, the sealing lip 3250 is forced to deflect towards the portion 3314 of the frame connection region 3312 thereby increasing the sealing force in this area. Even though a compression seal is formed between the retaining structure 3242 and frame connection region 3312 when the plenum chamber 3200 is engaged with the frame 3310, a pressure-activated seal also is formed between sealing lip 3250 and the portion 3314 of the frame connection region 3312 on engagement which strengthens as air pressure within increases. It may be possible in certain examples that the compression seal is not air tight resulting in undesired leakage.

Also, if a very large amount of compression of components is required to form the compression seal, this may hinder easy attachment and detachment of the plenum chamber 3200 to the frame 3310 possibly requiring more than a single hand to perform the operation or a significant amount of effort. Therefore, in one example of the present technology, the compression seal functions predominantly for the purpose of retention rather than of seal, and the pressure-activated seal functions predominantly for the purpose of creating and maintaining an air tight seal. It should be understood that such a sealing effect may be occurring about the periphery of the junction between the plenum chamber 3200 and the frame 3310. For example, FIG. 17 shows the sealing lip 3250 in a similarly deflected state against the frame connection region 3312 at a region separate from the retention features 3244. Moreover, it can be seen in FIG. 5, for example, that the sealing lip 3250 extends around the perimeter of the plenum chamber 3200. By extending the sealing lip 3250 inwardly around the perimeter of the junction between the plenum chamber 3200 and the frame 3310 the desired level of sealing can be achieved throughout this region, thereby preventing undesired leakage of pressurized gas.

Additionally, it should be understood that the sealing lip 3250 may be pressing against the interfering portion 3314 of the frame connection 3312 with a force that is urging these parts to separate. However, the friction force due to structural engagement of the trailing surface 3246.2 of the barb 3246 with the retaining surface 3312.2 of the frame connection region 3312 should be sufficient to resist the force of the sealing lip's 3250 tendency to return to an undeformed state and separate the plenum chamber 3200 from the frame 3310.

As for removal of the plenum chamber 3200 and the frame 3310, it should be understood that this process is substantially the reverse order of the process described above. In other words, the user may separate the plenum chamber 3200 from the frame 3310 by pulling these components in opposite directions and the view of FIG. 29 may be the beginning of the separation process and FIG. 25 may represent the view wherein the plenum chamber 3200 and the frame 3310 are fully separated. Pinching of the plenum chamber 3200 proximal to the plenum connection region 3240 or pinching the plenum connection region 3240 and pulling away from the frame 3310 may assist in removal of the plenum chamber 3200 from the frame 3310. It is also envisaged that the patient 1000 may pinch the plenum chamber 3200 for the purpose of gripping it, at any location, for example, the nasal pillows 3130 or stalks 3150 and simply pull it away from the frame 3310. A twisting motion while pulling may also assist in disengaging the plenum chamber 3200 from the frame 3310.

Hard-to-Hard Connection

The plenum connection region 3240 and the frame 3310 may be assembled and attached as shown in FIGS. 25 to 29. As stated above, the plenum connection region 3240 and/or retaining structure 3242 may be comprised of a semi-rigid material, e.g., high durometer silicone (a higher durometer than plenum chamber 3200)/TPE, plastic, nylon, polypropylene, polyamide and/or polycarbonate. The plenum connection region 3240 can be constructed in the form of a continuous ring or oval, two C-shaped clips, one C-shaped clip, or a single continuous piece but only surrounding a part of the plenum chamber 3200. The clip may function as a spring clip and be in the form of a C-section or double C-section. The spring force of the spring clip may be provided by resiliency of the plenum connection region 3240 being stretched against the frame connection regions 3312, 3313 or interfering portion 3314 of the frame 3310. In another example, a clip form may be not be necessary and only the retention features 3242, 3244 are permanently and directly connected to the plenum chamber 3200 without a plenum connection region 3240 and/or retaining structure 3242 for engagement with the connection regions 3312, 3313. It is also envisioned that one example of the present technology may also include the frame 3310 being comprised of the same or a similar semi-rigid material as the plenum connection region 3240. By manufacturing the frame 3310 and the plenum connection region 3240 of semi-rigid material, a “hard-to-hard” connection or bonding interface may be created. This “hard-to-hard” connection, in conjunction with the structural features of the plenum connection region 3240 and the frame connection region 3312, may provide the patient 1000 with a confident feeling (e.g., by providing an audible snap fit or re-assuring click sound) of the connection between the plenum chamber 3200 and the frame 3310 when assembling the patient interface 3000. Since a secure fit between the plenum chamber 3200 and the frame 3310 is helpful to ensure that the patient 1000 receives optimal therapy through the patient interface 3000, a design that provides the patient 1000 with confidence that a secure fit has been achieved is beneficial. A hard-to-hard connection as described herein may also be beneficial in that it may add stability to the seal made by the seal-forming structure 3100. This is contrast to a hard-to-soft or a soft-to-soft connection where either or both the plenum chamber and frame are made of a floppy material which makes it difficult for arthritic hands to properly engage the plenum chamber and frame easily, especially in darkened room.

Although the retention features 3242, 3244 are described as provided on the plenum chamber 3200 and the connection regions 3312, 3313 are provided on the frame 3310, it may be possible to switch the location to the retention features on the frame and the connection regions on the plenum chamber. Also, there may be a combination of a retention feature and a connection region on one part that corresponds with a connection region and a retention feature on the other part.

Method of Making the Plenum Chamber

A process to manufacture plenum chamber 3200 may comprise the step of moulding plenum connection region 3240 in a first tool, removing moulded plenum connection region 3240 from the first tool, inserting the plenum connection region 3240 into a second tool, and moulding a portion of plenum chamber 3200 comprising connection portion 3202 in the second tool. Plenum connection region 3240 may be chemically bonded and/or mechanically interlocked to connection portion 3202.

In one form, the sealing lip 3250 is constructed and arranged to interfere with the interfering portion 3314 (FIG. 13) of frame connection region 3312 when plenum chamber 3200 and frame 3310 are assembled together. In use, sealing lip 3250 is caused to resiliently flex away from a resting position (FIG. 6) when assembled with the interfering portion 3314 of frame connection region 3213, and at least in part as a result of being a resilient material, pushes against the interfering portion 3314 (FIG. 12) to resist or prevent leakage of air between sealing lip 3250 and the interfering portion 3314. Although the sealing lip 3250 has been described as provided with the plenum chamber 3200, the sealing lip may be provided on the frame 3310. Although one sealing lip has been described, it is possible two or more sealing lips may be provided, with at least one with the plenum chamber 3200 and at least one with the frame 3310.

Positioning and Stabilising Structure 3300

Note that in one form of the present technology, a number of structural features form part of a positioning and stabilising structure 3300, e.g., a headgear assembly (which may be referred to simply as headgear). In an alternative form of the present technology, one or more of those features are located on the frame 3310. For example, a flexing joint 3305 may be wholly or partly located on the headgear, or on the frame 3310. Also, the extension 3350 may perform the same function as the flexing joint 3305 except that it is integrally formed with the rigidiser arm 3302.

The seal-forming structure 3100 of the patient interface 3000 of the present technology may be held in sealing position in use by the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 (FIGS. 75, 76). In one form, the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 comprises headgear. It should be appreciated that the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 may, in one form of the technology, be referred to as headgear.

Headgear may be removably connectable to a portion of the patient interface such as the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 via a headgear connector.

Straps

The positioning and stabilising structure 3300 may comprise at least one strap 3301 (see, e.g., FIG. 65) and at least one rigidiser arm 3302 (see, e.g., FIG. 67). The strap 3301 may be made of an elastic material and may have elastic properties. In other words, the strap 3301 may be elastically stretched, e.g., by a stretching force applied by the patient and, upon release of the stretching force, returns or contracts to its original length in a neutral state. The strap 3301 may be made of or comprise any elastomeric material such as elastane, TPE, silicone etc. The material of the strap 3301 may also represent a combination of any of the above materials with other materials. The strap 3301 may be a single layer or multilayer strap. The strap 3301, particularly the side strap portions 3315, 3316 in contact with the patient 1000 during use, may be woven, knitted, braided, molded, extruded or otherwise formed. The strap 3301 may comprise or may be made of a textile material such as a woven material. Such material may comprise artificial or natural fibers for, on the one hand, providing desired and beneficial surface properties such as tactile properties and skin comfort. On the other hand, the material of the strap 3301 may include elastomeric material for providing the desired elastomeric properties. The entire strap 3301, including the side strap portions 3315, 3316 and back strap portion 3317, may all be stretchable. This enables the entire length of the strap 3301 to be stretched which leads to a comfortable force displacement profile. In order for the strap 3301 to be stretched in use, the length of the strap 3301 may be less than the average small head circumference of patients. For example, the length of the strap 3301 may be less than 590 mm in one example and less than 500 mm in another example. However, straps 3301 of different lengths may be provided to patients depending on their head circumference which may be gender specific. For example, a small sized strap may be 490 mm in length and a large sized strap may be 540 mm. In some circumstances this means that the length of the strap 3301 need not be stretched by a large distance (i.e. small sized strap for a large head circumference) which would have unnecessarily high headgear tension for such patients and also a less smooth force displacement profile as the small sized strap 3301 is being stretched to longer lengths.

The strap 3301 is rigidised at a certain sections, for example, from the frame 3301 up to a position proximal to the patient's cheekbone by the inserted rigidiser arms 3302. The strap 3301 may take the form of a hollow ribbon. The strap 3301 may be considered to be threaded over the rigidiser arm 3302 when it is slipped onto the rigidiser arm 3302 and secured at one end of the rigidiser arm 3302 proximal to the frame 3301.

In one example, the strap 3301 including the side strap portions 3315, 3316 and back strap portion 3317 are made by warp knitting a textile material. The strap 3301 is a 3D knitted fabric that is knit by computer control as a single unitary piece. Variation in the thread and stitching may occur at various positions along the strap 3301 to adjust the elasticity and strength and durability of the strap 3301 at certain locations. For example, at the locations of the openings, insertion points or button-holes 3303, 3304 and the bifurcation point 3324 for the back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b, an additional thread may be knitted to provide reinforcement of the strap 3301 to prevent failure/breakage of the strap 3301 at these locations that subject to high stress when the strap 3301 is stretched during repeated and prolonged use. Both the knitting method (i.e. warp knitting) and the elastic textile material (e.g. elastane) of the strap 3301 contribute to the elastic recovery of the strap 3301 after washing the strap 3301 in water and dried. In other words, the elasticity of the strap 3301 can be maintained after prolonged use by periodically washing the strap 3301 and therefore its operational life is extended.

In FIGS. 65 to 73, the strap 3301 is shown as being a single continuous strap with two pocketed ends 3311, 3313 for being attached, directly or via a flexible joint 3305, to a frame 3310. However, it may be appreciated that the strap 3301 may comprise multiple individual straps which are or may be directly connected to one another, for example, stitching or ultrasonic welding. In FIG. 65, the strap 3301 and positioning and stabilising structure 3300 is shown without any adjustment or variation means. Such adjustment may be provided, however, by varying where the strap 3301 is secured to a patient interface 3000 or other connection elements more rigid than the strap 3301 such as a flexible joint 3305. Turning to FIG. 72, in addition or alternatively, adjustment could be allowed by adding a mechanism, such as slide over ladder lock clips 3305.1 on the back 3317 or side strap portions 3315, 3316 (as shown, e.g., in FIGS. 71 to 73) or by otherwise adjusting the elastic length of the strap 3301 and positioning and stabilising structure 3300, respectively. In the example shown in FIG. 65, the strap 3301 has a tube-like configuration as can be taken from the respective schematic views in FIGS. 68 to 70 indicating an oval or circular shape or respective marks 3321 a-d, 3323 a-e of circular or oval shape indicating the (visible) outer surface facing towards the viewer as solid and the (invisible) inner wall facing away from the viewer in dashed lines, as well as by the cross-sectional view according to FIG. 66. However, it will be appreciated that the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 may take any other shape such as flat or sheet-like shape, single, multi-layer or laminate construction. The strap 3301 may have a longitudinal axis which may be understood to be the axis substantially parallel to the paper plane, along which the strap 3301 extends (see, e.g., dashed line in FIG. 65).

The strap 3301 have may reinforced stitching to improve durability and minimise or prevent failure points. For example, the areas of the strap 3301 at the button-holes 3303, 3304 and also at the location where it bifurcates into two back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b, at bifurcation points 3324, are subject to high stress when stretched. The tendency of the material is to split away from each other at a split region 3326 and therefore reinforced stitching at these areas is one way to address this concern. In an example, a central seam runs along the centre longitudinal axis of the strap 3301 and functions as reinforced stitching. Also, the distal edges of the strap 3301 and the opening at the button-holes 3303, 3304 may be ultrasonically welded to fuse any stray fibers and strengthen the strap 3301 in these regions. Advantageously, this also prevents fraying of the fibers of the strap 3301 after extended use and repeated washing. Other techniques are envisaged for reinforcing and strengthening the pocketed end 3311, distal edges and button-hole 3303, which may include additional material such as tape. The tape may include branding and logo information also.

FIGS. 123 to 125 show increasingly detailed views of the split region 3326 between the upper back strap portion 3317 a and the lower back strap portion 3317 b. The edges of the upper back strap portion 3317 a and the lower back strap portion 3317 b should be understood to not be perfectly smooth as a result of the knitting process and it should be further understood that these views show the edges with a great deal of magnification such that imperfections are visible. With the naked eye the undulations on the edges of the upper back strap portion 3317 a and the lower back strap portion 3317 b would not be so easily visible and are not generally discernible by the patient 1000 by touch. Additionally, stippling is used in these views to show the texture of the back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b while the split region 3326 is shown blank because the split region 3326 is an absence of material.

FIGS. 126 to 131 show various detailed views of the bifurcation point 3324 that exists where the upper back strap portion 3317 a and the lower back strap portion 3317 b split off from a side strap portion 3315, 3316. Also visible in these views is a reinforced portion 3325 that may include additional stitching or welding at or proximal to the bifurcation point 3324. The reinforced portion 3325 may aid in preventing the side strap portions 3315, 3316 from splitting and/or tearing due to stress from the repeated separation of the upper back strap portion 3317 a and the lower back strap portion 3317 b. In other words, the reinforced portion 3325 may provide additional strength at a location of stress concentration near the bifurcation point 3324. Also shown in these views are the upper back strap portion 3317 a and the lower back strap portion 3317 b at various angles of separation θ. These views may be understood to show that the reinforced portion 3325 provides additional strength at the bifurcation point 3324 when the upper back strap portion 3317 a and the lower back strap portion 3317 b are spread from one another at large angles θ.

Rigidiser Arms

FIG. 67 shows an example of a rigidiser arm 3302. As shown, the rigidiser arm 3302 may take a crescent or semi-circular shape. The rigidiser arm 3302 may have a generally elongate and flat configuration. In other words, the rigidiser arm 3302 is far longer and wider (direction from top to bottom in the paper plane) than thick (direction into the paper plane). The rigidiser arm 3302 has a three-dimensional shape which has curvature in all three axes (X, Y and Z). Although the thickness of the rigidiser arm 3302 may be substantially uniform, its height varies throughout its length. The purpose of the shape and dimension of the rigidiser arm 3302 is to conform closely to the cheeks of the patient in order to remain unobtrusive and frame the patient's face and cheeks. The ends 3319 a, 3319 b of rigidiser arm 3302 may be rounded and/or slightly angled relative to the remainder of the rigidiser arm 3302. While the rigidiser arm 3302 may be flat, as indicated by the paper plane in FIG. 67, it will be appreciated, that the rigidiser arm 3302 may have a desired spatial configuration also in the direction into the paper plane in FIG. 67, particularly in order to allow improved alignment with the shape of a patient's face, such as the shape of a patient's cheek or head side region (see, e.g., FIGS. 71 and 72). The rigidiser arm 3302 may have a longitudinal axis which may be understood to be the axis substantially parallel to the paper plane, along which the rigidiser arm 3302 extends (see dashed line in FIG. 67).

The rigidiser arm 3302 is more rigid than the strap 3301 and less rigid than the mask frame 3310. In particular, the rigidiser arm 3302 and/or the strap 3301 are such that in combination the rigidiser arm 3302 imparts a shape, and an increased degree of rigidity in at least one direction or in or around at least one axis, to the strap 3301. Also, the rigidiser arm 3302 guides or defines the direction or path of stretch for the strap 3301. In other words, the patient stretches the strap 3301 in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the rigidiser arm 3302. Stretching of the strap 3301 in other directions leads to rotation of the rigidiser arm 3302 relative to the mask frame 3310 which is undesirable. The rigidity of the rigidiser arm 3302 biases the rigidiser arm 3302 towards its natural, unrotated, untwisted and undeformed state. To some degree, this enables the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 to be self-adjusting headgear. The self-adjusting function avoids manually shortening or lengthening the material length of headgear straps and then remembering the adjusted length. This has typically been a cumbersome process because headgear straps on both sides of the face have to be shortened or lengthened one at a time. It may remove the ability for patients to over tighten the headgear when such high levels of headgear tension is not required to maintain a good sealing force. In the shown example, strap 3301 has a tube- or sleeve-like configuration. In other words, the strap 3301 is hollow in order to receive the insertion of the rigidiser arm 3302 which is slid into the strap 3301 via the button-hole 3303. In another example, the rigidiser arm 3302 may be permanently connected to the strap 3301 at least in one location, for example, at the anchor point it is overmolded or glued to form an integral chemical bond (molecular adhesion) between the rigidiser arm 3302 and the strap 3301.

Strap 3301 comprises side strap portions 3315, 3316 and aback strap portion 3317 located between the side strap portions 3315, 3316. Side strap portions 3315, 3316 are adapted to extend along the sides of a patient's head when being worn while back strap portion 3317 is adapted to extend along the back of a patient's head, as shown in FIGS. 4 to 8 and 166. Back strap portion 3317 may be comprised of two, three or more straps arranged in parallel, particularly for providing stability. Although the smaller back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b have been illustrated as equal in length, it is envisaged that one back strap portion is longer than the other back strap portion. The greater the number of smaller back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b for the back strap portion 3317, the greater the spring effect provided. In other words, as the number of same sized smaller back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b increases when the strap 3301 is manufactured, the more tension is exerted on the side strap portions 3315, 3316 to be pulled closer to each other by the back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b. In the shown example, side strap portions 3315, 3316 of strap 3301 bifurcate into two back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b. In one example, each back strap portion 3317 a, 3317 b has half the amount of elastane material compared to each side strap portion 3315, 3316 of the strap 3301. In one example, the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 is connected to the mask frame 3310 by a removable connection between strap 3301 and the rigidiser arm 3302 via a button-hole 3303, 3304 and the rigidiser arm 3302 being permanently connected to the mask frame 3310 via mechanical interlock. In another example, a flexible joint 3305 made from TPE may permanently connect to the rigidiser arm 3302 and the mask frame 3310. The flexible joint 3305 is overmolded with the mask frame 3310 for permanent connection and the flexible joint 3305 is permanently connected to the rigidiser arm 3302 via mechanical interlock. In another example, the flexible joint 3305 may be made from the same material as the rigidiser arm 3302, for example, Hytrel®, and is integral with the rigidiser arm 3302 and the flexible joint 3305 is permanently connected to the mask frame 3310 via mechanical interlock. The strap 3301 is removably connected with the rigidiser arm 3302 via a button-hole 3303, 3304.

The engagement of the strap 3301 to the rigidiser arm 3302 may occur in one location proximal to the mask frame 3310. This type of engagement allows for a maximum range of motion i.e. stretching of the strap 3301. This engagement is removable to enable the strap 3301 to be fully detachable from the rigidiser arm 3302 and in turn, the mask frame 3310 to facilitate washing of the strap 3301. The engagement functions as an anchor point for the strap 3301 such that when the strap 3301 is stretched, the stretching force is directed outwardly away from the anchor point. Turning to FIGS. 48 to 60, the end of the strap 3301 at the anchor point is retained by at least the distal edge of the rigidiser arm 3302 and/or a protruding end 3306 extending from the rigidiser arm 3302.

It will be appreciated by the skilled person that the rigidiser arm 3302 as referred to herein may be more rigid than the strap 3301 and allows the rigidiser arm to impart a shape to the strap 3301. The rigidiser arm 3302 may be more rigid in or around at least one axis and is inextensible in contrast to the strap 3301 which can be stretched along at least one axis. In another example, the rigidiser arm 3302 is extensible/stretchable in a direction substantially parallel to its longitudinal axis. Although elastomers typically can stretch, some thermoplastic polyester elastomers do not stretch but are flexible, for example, Hytrel® 5556 manufactured by DuPont®. For example, the rigidiser arm 3302 may have a scissor linkage structure or telescopic structure which enables the rigidiser arm 3302 to move between a compressed position to a fully elongated position. An extensible rigidiser arm 3302 may allow a better fit for patients 1000 who have longer faces so that the length of the rigidiser arm 3302 can be adjusted appropriately. Alternatively, the rigidiser arm 3302 may be referred to as a yoke and/or a stiffener. A yoke may be understood to be a rigid element adapted to support the straps 3301 of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300. A rigidiser arm 3302 may be understood to be a rigid element shaping the straps 3302 of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 when worn on the face.

Attachment of Straps and Rigidiser Arms

Although being shown and discussed with regard to the specific examples shown in FIGS. 65 to 70, it will be appreciated that strap 3301, or each of the strap side strap portions 3315, 3316 may be provided with one button-hole 3303, 3304 only. However, two or more button-holes may be provided. Alternatively or in addition, the strap 3301 may not be tube-like or sleeve-like but may have a flat single or laminate layer configuration. Here, the rigidiser arm 3302 may be positioned relative to the strap 3301 by the provision of retaining means including one or more loops, sleeve-like portions or pockets provided at the outer surface (e.g., the surface facing away from the patient in use) of strap 3301.

In addition or alternatively, combinations of the different connection mechanisms described herein may be provided. For example, rigidiser arm 3302 may be fixed to the strap 3301 at a single point or localized area, as discussed above, adjacent, e.g. pocketed ends 3311, 3313 of strap 3301 while being held next to strap 3301 by provision of a loop or sleeve-like element provided at the outer surface of strap 3301, e.g., in the area of the marks 3321 b, 3323 b. In other words, the rigidiser arm 3302 may be connected to the strap 3301 by fixing it at one localized point or area only, while functioning as an additional guiding element to strap 3301. Such guiding element functionality may be provided by a loop- or sheath-like portion or passage or a pocket of the strap 3301 into which or through which rigidiser arm 3302 extends based on the shape of the strap 3301 shown in FIG. 66. The strap 3301 may be tubular, but not necessarily cylindrical. This allows the longest stretch path possible for the strap 3301. Alternatively, the rigidiser arm 3302 may be disposed unattached into one or more pockets (e.g., a single open-ended pocket of sheath of appreciable length supporting the rigidiser arm somewhere in the middle, or a pair of pockets, each supporting a respective end of the rigidiser arm), or a plurality of loops distributed along the length of the strap 3301. Such guiding element functionality, whether attached at one end or not, allows substantially free movement or floating of the rigidiser arm 3302 relative to the strap 3301. Such configuration would allow the same advantages and benefits as the configuration discussed above. Additionally, according to an example of the technology, the rigidiser arms 3302 do not stretch or flex in the same direction as the strap 3301. Rather, the rigidiser arm 3302 may stretch or flex in a plane substantially perpendicular to its longitudinal axis.

In the shown and discussed examples, rigidiser arm 3302 does not extend beyond the end(s) of strap 3301. However, according to alternative aspects, the rigidiser arm 3302 may be, e.g., fixed to strap 3301 at a point or area adjacent to the respective pocketed ends 3311, 3313 while extending beyond strap 3301. In such a configuration, rigidiser arm 3302 may impart a shape, geometry, and/or rigidity to the strap 3301 and at the same time, provide structural means such, as a flexible joint 3305, for connecting with a patient interface 3000. This allows rigidiser arm 3302 to function both as rigidiser arm 3302 as well as a connector for connecting the strap 3301 and the positioning and stabilising structure 3300, respectively, to the frame 3100, plenum chamber 3200, or seal-forming structure 3100.

FIGS. 113 to 122 shows detailed views of the connection between the pocketed ends 3311, 3313 and the rigidiser arms 3302. FIGS. 113 and 114 show the pocketed ends 3311, 3313 around respective protruding ends 3306 of the rigidiser arms 3302. The protruding ends 3306 are not visible in these views because they are covered by the pocketed ends 3311, 3313. A straight section 3351 on an extension 3350 (discussed further below) of the rigidiser arm 3302 is shown with indicia 3358 on an outer surface 3355 of the extension 3350. The indicia 3358 may be pad printed, a raised surface or an embossment to help the patient 1000 orient the device 3000 during use when in a darkened environment. The straight section 3351 of the extension 3350 may be seen extending outwardly from the button-hole 3303 of the respective pocketed end 3311, 3313. The straight section 3351 is a part of the rigidiser arm 3302, as shown in FIGS. 47 to 60, and the rigidiser arm 3302 facilitates the connection between the strap 3301 and the mask frame 3310. FIG. 114 shows a similar view to FIG. 113, however the outer surface 3355 of the straight section 3351 is without indicia. It should be understood that FIG. 113 depicts the connection between one rigidiser arm 3302 and the respective pocketed end 3311 while FIG. 114 depicts the connection between another rigidiser arm 3302 and the other respective pocketed end 3313. By placing indicia 3358 on only one outer surface 3355, the patient 1000 can use the sense of touch to determine the orientation of the device 3000 to aid in fitting in a darkened environment. FIG. 114 also shows a flange 3359 that is visible through the button-hole 3303.

FIG. 115 shows similar features to FIG. 114 but is a more detailed view to better show the relationship between the flange 3359 and the pocketed end 3313. FIG. 116 also shows similar features to FIG. 113 but is a more detailed view to better show the indicia 3358 and the button-hole 3303 in the pocketed end 3313.

FIG. 117 shows a further detailed view of FIG. 114 to better illustrate the button-hole 3303 at the pocketed end 3313. FIG. 118 shows a further detailed view of FIG. 113 to better illustrate the button-hole 3303 at the pocketed end 3313.

FIGS. 119 to 122 show similar features to those shown in FIGS. 113 to 118, however in these views the flange 3359 is pulled from the button-hole 3303 to better show its design. FIGS. 119 and 122 show the rigidiser arm 3302 that includes the indicia 3358 on the outer surface 3355 extending from the button-hole 3303 of the pocketed end 3311. FIG. 122 should be understood to show a more detailed view of FIG. 119. FIGS. 120 and 121 show the other rigidiser arm 3302 that may not include the indicia. FIG. 121 should be understood to show a more detailed view of FIG. 120.

Stretching of Straps Relative to Rigidiser Arms

As can be seen in the example shown in FIG. 68, two rigidiser arms 3302 are inserted into side strap portions 3315, 3316 of the strap 3301 of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300, the rigidiser arm 3302 is held in place by the surrounding strap 3301 while at the same time the sleeve-like configuration of strap 3301 allows at least a portion of the strap 3301 to stretch or move relative to the rigidiser arm 3302. Preferably, this stretchable portion is a substantial portion because only at the anchor point is the strap 3301 secured to the rigidiser arm 3302. In some examples, a limitation on the movement of the rigidiser arm 3302 is generally imposed when one of the ends 3319 a or 3319 b of the rigidiser arm 3302 moves towards and abuts against a respective pocketed end 3311 of the strap 3301, as in FIG. 69. For example, when the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 is not on the patient's head and the straps 3301 are loose, when the inserted rigidiser arm 3302 moves too far towards the back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b, its end 3319 b may enter the open end of one of these back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b. As the width of the back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b is smaller than that of the rigidiser arm 3302, the end 3319 b of the rigidiser arm 3302 abuts against the respective back strap portion 3317 a, 3317 b, which restricts its further movement in this direction.

The attachment of the strap 3301 to the rigidiser arm 3302 described in the preceding section may also affect the size of head that the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 may accommodate. In other words, by providing a greater length of strap 3301 along the rigidiser arm 3302 it may be possible to increase the total stretchable length of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 such that even larger circumference heads may be accommodated without needing to increase the stretchability of the strap 3301. Furthermore, it may be possible to vary, along the length of the rigidiser arm 3302, where the strap 3301 is connected. This would allow for an even greater range of head sizes and circumferences to be accommodated without the need to alter the stretchability of the strap 3301.

The length of the strap 3301 is from about 400 mm to 700 mm. The length of the strap 3301 may be about 490 mm. The strap 3301 may provide a comfortable level of headgear tension for most head sizes. There may be two lengths or sizes of straps which are gender specific, the one for the male population being longer than the female version. Preferably, there may be two sizes/lengths of the strap 3301 for each gender. A comfortable level of headgear tension is from about 2 to about 5 Newtons. A comfortable level of headgear tension is from about 2.2 Newtons to about 4.7 Newtons. When the strap 3301 is stretched from 490 mm to 526 mm for a small circumference head of a patient 1000, the headgear tension as measured using an Instron machine is 2 Newtons. When the strap 3301 is stretched from 490 mm to 662 mm for a large circumference head of a patient, the headgear tension as measured using an Instron machine is 4.4 Newtons. For the measurement, the button-holes 3303, 3304 of the strap 3301 are attached onto clamping fixtures. A tensile testing machine with a 100 Newtons load cell is used. The strap 3301 is extended and held at predetermined extension points (e.g. 90.5 mm, 73 mm and 108 mm) for one minute, and the force value (in Newtons) is recorded for each extension point. Such measurement does not consider any friction of the material of the strap 3301 against the patient's face or hair.

The length of a split region 3326 defined between the two back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b is from about 180 mm to about 220 mm. The length of the split region 3326 may be 200 mm. If the length of the split region 3326 is not long enough, the two back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b will be unable to cup the back of the patient's head and therefore unable to maintain their position during therapy and the headgear tension will not remain set to the patient's preference. If the length of the split region 3326 is too long, the two back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b will separate in front of the user's ears and be uncomfortable as they pass over the ears rather than above/around it and also it reduces the maximum angle range for the two back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b with respect to each other.

In the neutral and unstretched condition of the strap 3301, the two back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b have an angle θ from each other at about 0° to about 10°. After donning the patient interface 3000, the two back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b may be split from each other such that the angle θ may be up to about 180°. This allows a maximum angular range of 180° which in turn gives a large range for the reduction of headgear tension through incrementally spreading apart the two back strap portion 3317 a, 3317 b. The angular range may be narrowed to a default angle of 10° to a maximum angle of 120°. The patient may use one or both hands to move the two back strap portion 3317 a, 3317 b now under tension on the back of their head, apart or together. By moving the two back strap portion 3317 a, 3317 b further apart from each other, the split region 3326 enlarges, leading to a reduction in headgear tension from the unsplit range of 2.5 to 5 Newtons. The headgear tension may be reduced from about 30% to about 50% according to one example, or to about 40% in another example, as measured by a load cell. In other words, for a small circumference head of a patient, the headgear tension may be reduced from 2 Newtons to 1.2 Newtons by enlarging the separation between the two back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b. For a large circumference head of a patient, the headgear tension may be reduced from 4.4 Newtons to 2.64 Newtons by enlarging the separation between the two back strap portion 3317 a, 3317 b.

The rigidiser arm 3302 may thus be allowed to move generally unrestrictedly along the length of the strap 3301, attached to the strap 3301, or may be adjacent one of its ends.

The discussed configurations allow, as shown in FIG. 70, the strap 3301, and thus, the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 to stretch and expand in length. Such elongation is not limited to those portions of the strap 3301 that are not in contact with or parallel to the rigidiser arm 3302 but also, elongation, particularly elastic elongation of the strap 3301, is achieved in the area of rigidiser arm 3302. This can easily be derived from comparison of the length of the rigidiser arm 3302 in FIGS. 68 and 70 (which remains the same although the strap 3301 is stretched) with marks 3321 a-d, 3323 a-e visualizing the length of the strap 3301 with regard to the length of the rigidiser arm 3302. It is easily derivable by comparison of FIGS. 68 and 70 that the rigidiser arms 3302 extend along marks 3321 a to 3321 c and 3323 a to 3323 d, respectively in FIG. 68 in the un-stretched state. Contrary thereto, in the stretched state according to FIG. 70, rigidiser arms 3302 extend along marks 3321 a to 3321 b and 3323 a to 3323 c, only. Therefrom, it becomes clear that strap 3301 is stretched also in and along the area where rigidiser arms 3302 are contained in strap 3301. The rigidiser arms 3302 remain un-stretched however during stretching of the strap 3301.

As will be appreciated, positioning and stabilising structure 3300 may comprise one or more rigidiser arms 3302. While the above discussion concentrates on the relationship of a rigidiser arm 3302 with a strap 3301, it is to be noted that the example shown in FIGS. 68 to 70 comprises two rigidiser arms 3302, one being provided in each respective side strap portion 3315, 3316 of strap 3301. The above comments, although eventually referring to one rigidiser arm 3302, thus equally apply to two or more rigidiser arms 3302 connected to a mask frame 3310.

One possibly advantageous attribute of allowing the strap 3301 to stretch relative to the rigidiser arm 3302 as heretofore described may be that the patient interface 3000, along with the positioning and stabilising structure 3300, may be donned and doffed by the patient 1000 without the need to disconnect any straps or other connection features. This may be helpful to a patient 1000 who is using the device 3000 in a dark bedroom prior to or following sleep, in that the patient does not need to be able to see to connect or disconnect various components to attach or remove the patient interface 3000. Rather, the patient 1000 may only need to simply pull on or off the patient interface 3000 and positioning and stabilising structure 3300, and in the case of donning it may also be necessary to position the seal-forming structure 3100. However, this may all be accomplished by feel, sight being unnecessary.

It may however remain advantageous to allow disconnection of the plenum chamber 3200 or seal-forming structure 3100 from the positioning and stabilising structure 3300. For example, to clean the plenum chamber 3200 or seal-forming structure 3100 it may be desirable to wash it while not getting the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 wet. This may be facilitated by allowing these components to disconnect for such a purpose.

Rigidiser Arms and Mask Frame

FIGS. 47 to 60 show rigidiser arms 3302 and a mask frame 3310 according to a further example of the present technology.

FIGS. 47 to 49 and 54 show cross-sectional views of a rigidiser arm 3302 and a mask frame 3310 and the connection therebetween, according to an example of the present technology. Near a sharp bend 3307 of the rigidiser arm 3302 an extension 3350 is connected by a joint 3356. Also near the sharp bend 3307 is a protruding end 3306 of the rigidiser arm 3302 that may retain a pocketed end of a side strap portion 3316 of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300. In these views the mask frame 3310 can be seen formed around a hook 3353 and an enclosable section 3354 of the extension 3350. An opening 3335 may also be formed in the mask frame 3310 near where the mask frame 3310 surrounds the enclosable section 3354. The opening 3335 may be formed as a result of the overmolding process by which the mask frame 3310 is formed and secured around the enclosable section 3354 of the rigidiser arm 3302. The rigidiser arm 3302 according to this example may be formed from Hytrel® and the mask frame 3310 may be formed from polypropylene (PP). Hytrel® is desirable for forming the rigidiser arms 3302 because this material is resistant to creep. Since these materials cannot be integrally bonded the mask frame 3310 may be overmolded to the rigidiser arm 3302 in this example to form a secure connection. It should also be noted that in this example the extension 3350 and the rigidiser arm 3302 may be molded as one piece. The mask frame 3310 may be connected to the rigidiser arms 3302 at respective extensions 3350 located opposite distal free ends 3302.1. The extension 3350 may comprise a straight section 3351 joined to a bend 3352 joined to a hook 3353. The hook 3353 and a portion of the bend 3352 may form the enclosable section 3354.

It should be understood that the joint 3356 that connects extension 3350 to the rigidiser arm 3302 may provide a targeted point of flexibility and the joint may be shaped and formed to allow flexing in a desired direction and degree. Thus, once the patient interface 3000 is donned and the rigidiser arms 3302 are stressed by tension from straps of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 the rigidiser arms 3302 may flex at the joints 3356 to allow them to retain a face framing shape while helping to retain the mask frame 3310 in a desired position relative to the patient's face.

FIGS. 50 and 51 show perspective and detailed perspective views, respectively, of rigidiser arms 3302 connected to a mask frame 3310, according to an example of the present technology. FIG. 51 further shows the enclosable section 3354 in dashed lines and overmolded by the mask frame 3310 to secure the mask frame to the end of the rigidiser arm 3302. The opening 3335 can be seen, as in FIGS. 47 to 49, forming a passage completely through the mask frame 3310 and the hook 3353 of the rigidiser arm 3302.

FIGS. 52 and 53 show top and detailed top views, respectively, of a mask frame 3310 connected to rigidiser arms 3302, according to an example of the present technology. In FIG. 52 the dimension L indicates the length of the rigidiser arm 3302 in the direction shown. Preferably, the nominal length L of a rigidiser arm 3302 is 114 mm. These views show particularly well how the joint 3356 may connect the extension 3350 to the rigidiser arm 3302 between the protruding end 3306 and the sharp bend 3307.

FIGS. 55 to 57 show side, front, and perspective views, respectively, of rigidiser arms 3302 and a mask frame 3310, according to an example of the present technology. In FIG. 55, the dimension H indicates the height of the rigidiser arm 3302 in the direction shown. Preferably, the nominal height H of a rigidiser arm 3302 is 33 mm. The rigidiser arm 3302 and the extension 3350 may be formed as one piece and then connected to the mask frame 3310 by overmolding the mask frame 3310 to the enclosable section 3354 of the extension 3350 of the rigidiser arm 3302. The extension 3350 accommodates nose droop by bending in a pivoting manner or vertical rotates relative to the rigidiser arm 3302. Since the extension 3350 has a smaller height, has less material than the remainder of the rigidiser arm 3302 and is decoupled from the remainder of the rigidiser arm 3302 by the sharp bend 3307, bending of the extension 3350 is localised and occurs before the remainder of the rigidiser arm 3302 starts to bend. This reduces the likelihood of disruption of sealing forces.

FIGS. 58 and 59 show partially exploded and detailed partially exploded views, respectively, of rigidiser arms 3302 and a mask frame 3310, according to an example of the present technology. The hook 3353 and the enclosable section 3354 of the extension 3350 can be seen separated from the mask frame 3310. The shape of the hook 3353 and the enclosable section 3354 may be seen in these views and it should be understood that these portions are formed to ensure a stronger mechanical interlock with the mask frame 3310 when the mask frame 3310 is overmolded. Specifically, these views show that the enclosable section 3354 may be formed with flared ends at the hook 3353 to provide surfaces for retention to the mask frame 3310. In another example of the technology, the enclosable section 3354 may include an opening for restraining the rigidiser arm 3302 within the mold tool(s) during overmolding of the mask frame 3310. A mold tool may be inserted through this opening to stabilize the rigidiser arm 3302 as the mask frame 3310 is overmolded around the rigidiser. This may be advantageous because the pressures of overmolding may cause the rigidiser arm 3302 to shift during the molding process such that a less than ideal mechanical interlock with the mask frame 3310 would be formed.

FIG. 60 shows a perspective view of a rigidiser arm 3302 according to an example of the present technology. It shows the rigidiser arm 3302 prior to permanent connection with the mask frame 3310. As discussed immediately above, the rigidiser arm 3302 may include a hook 3353 and an enclosable section 3354 to allow for connection to the mask frame 3310 via mechanical interlock. This permanently connects the rigidiser arm 3302 to the frame 3310. By having the rigidiser arm 3302 and the frame 3310 permanently connected together, it means that there are less detachable parts and reduced likelihood of losing a part during assembly/disassembly of the patient interface 3000 when cleaning.

Positioning and Stabilising Structure on a Patient

FIGS. 71 to 73 show an example of the present technology. Here, the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 comprises a strap 3301 with side strap portions 3315, 3316 and a back strap portion 3317 comprising two back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b running in parallel along the back of a patient's head. The positioning and stabilising structure 3300 comprises two rigidiser arms (not shown), each contained in a respective side strap portion 3315, 3316 of the sleeve- or tube-like strap 3301. Rigidiser arms 3302 impart a predetermined shape or desired shape and/or rigidity to the strap 3301, and thus, the positioning and stabilising structure 3300. For example, the side strap portions 3315, 3316 of the strap 3301 have a certain curvature for following a desired contour around a patient's face (see curvature at reference numeral 3323 in FIGS. 52, 54, 58, and 60), which is achieved by the provision of respectively shaped rigidiser arm 3302. In the example shown, the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 is connected to the frame 3310, plenum chamber 3200 or seal-forming structure 3100 for providing breathable gas such as air, eventually pressurized breathable gas, to a patient's airways. In the shown example, such breathable gas is provided via the hose or tube 4180 connected to patient interface 3000. The tube 4180 may be connected at its other end (not shown) to a source of breathable gas, such as a blower or ventilator for providing pressurized breathable gas. The patient interface 3000 may comprise a frame portion or frame 3310 for imparting structural integrity to the patient interface 3000 and/or for connecting to the positioning and stabilising structure 3300. The positioning and stabilising structure 3300 may be connected to the frame 3310, plenum chamber 3200 or seal-forming structure 3100 via a separate connector means (not shown) provided on strap 3301 and/or rigidiser arm 3302.

FIGS. 74 to 77 show similar features to those shown in FIGS. 71 to 73, however the examples shown in FIGS. 74 to 76 and 77 depict a different connection between the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 and the mask frame 3310. At each end of the side strap portions 3315, 3316 there is a pocketed end 3311, 3313 as shown in FIGS. 65 and 81. These pocketed ends 3311, 3313 are retained on the rigidiser arms 3302 (not visible in these views because they are within the side strap portions 3315, 3316) by the protruding end 3306 of respective rigidiser arms shown, for example, in FIGS. 47 to 60. Although not visible in FIGS. 74 to 77, it should be understood that, in this example, end welds 3311.1, 3313 depicted in FIG. 81 serve to close the pocketed ends 3311, 3313 so that they may be retained against the protruding ends 3306. The rigidiser arms 3302 are then permanently and mechanically secured to the mask frame 3310 by overmolding, for example, as described with reference to FIGS. 47 to 60.

Split Back Straps of Positioning and Stabilising Structure

According to one aspect, the structure of strap 3301 and positioning and stabilising structure 3300 is of advantage. In particular, the provision of two elastic straps or back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b at the back allows the head to be cupped and the tension vector(s) to be adjusted by suitably positioning them, e.g. by spreading. The provision of two back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b also allows better support and stability, as well as increased flexibility in avoiding specifically sensitive regions of the back of the head. The back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b are intended to cup the head at the calvaria to maintain position and engagement. In one example, depending on the particular head shape of a patient and the amount of splitting of the back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b, the upper back strap portion 3317 a is to be located proximal to the parietal bone and the lower back strap portion 3317 b is to be located proximal to the occipital bone or superior fibers of the trapezius muscle (i.e. near the nape of the neck or nucha). The lower back strap portion 3317 b may be configured to engage the head of the patient at a position on or lower than the external occipital protuberance. In contrast to headgear of prior masks which require material length adjustment (shortening or lengthening), the tension provided by the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 is adjustable simply by opening or closing the relative angle between the two back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b. To reduce headgear tension, the two back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b are separated further apart on the back of the head when the patient interface 3000 is worn. To increase headgear tension, the two back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b are brought closer together. This manner of adjustment is advantageous over notched straps which only permit preset incremental adjustment of headgear tension, Velcro™ (unbroken loop fabric) straps which require several attempts at fastening and unfastening until the desired headgear tension is obtained, or looping a strap through a buckle that is easier to increase than decrease headgear tension because of the motion of pulling the strap through the buckle for tightening. Also, patients 1000 are afraid to get the headgear tension wrong or to change the headgear tension.

The two smaller straps or back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b at the back of the head may be equal in length and not adjustable except through the elasticity of the material or through increasing both in tightness equally by shortening the total length at the side strap portions 3315, 3316 of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300. For example, a sliding mechanism (not shown) may be provided that allows the straps 3301 to be overlapped to a different extent, thus changing the overall length of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300. Non-independently adjustable strap lengths allow the two back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b to naturally center themselves on the crown of the head. The two back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b may be symmetrical or asymmetrical. In other words, the upper back strap portion 3317 a may naturally settle at the top of the head, while the lower back strap portion 3317 b may naturally settle at the back of the head near or below the occipital lobe. This may reduce the possibility of manually over tightening one strap to compensate for the other being too loose resulting in a misfit of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300. This, again, might not only lead to discomfort but also negatively influence therapy compliance. The aggregated width of both back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b may be substantially equal to the width of a side strap portion 3315. This is aesthetically pleasing as well as providing a visual indicator to the patient to adjust the back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b when donning the patient interface 3000. Although two back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b have been described, more are possible which may provide differing degrees of adjustment of headgear tension. When the strap 3301 is in the neutral state and unstretched, the two back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b are partially separated such that a gap exists between them for inviting or indicating to the patient to adjust the back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b when donning the patient interface 3000. This improves the intuitiveness for adjusting headgear tension, and visually indicates how the headgear tension may be adjusted that is sometimes lacking in prior masks.

As indicated above, two or more joints could be provided creating the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 from three, four or more separate straps rather than the strap 3301 being one continuous piece. This might complicate the assembly, but may simplify the manufacturing process. Joints may be placed at the bifurcation point 3324 between the side strap portions 3315, 3316 and two back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b or centered at the back. The joints may be sewn, welded, glued, or over molded and could incorporate a high friction material to help reduce movement on the head. High friction materials may include pad printing, silicone printing to increase relative surface friction between the straps 3301, 3317 a, 3317 b and the patient's skin or hair in order to maintain position of the straps 3301, 3317 a, 3317 b on the patient's head. The high friction materials may be present only on the patient contacting surface of the back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b since the rigidiser arms 3302 may perform some or most of the function of maintaining position of the side strap portions 3315, 3316 relative to the patient's face.

High friction materials may also be added to the inside surface of the back and side strap portions 3315, 3316, 3317 a, 3317 b, to reduce the straps from slipping against the patient's face or hair. For the arms or side strap portions 3315, 3316 this would help the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 stay on the cheeks and at the back strap portion 3317 it could stop the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 from sliding across the back of the head. Such material may be printed, cast or molded onto the surface or incorporated into joints, sewing or welding processes as mentioned above. Another way to reduce strap slippage is to have elastic yarns protruding from the textile material.

Instead of being inserted from the button-holes 3303, 3304 located close to the mask frame 3310, as shown in FIG. 65, the rigidiser arm 3302 could optionally be inserted from an opening 3308 located proximal to the bifurcation point 3324 where the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 bifurcates. Once the rigidiser arm 3302 is inserted, the elasticity of the material could be used to hook back the rigidiser arm 3302 inside the opening of one of the small back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b (upper or lower). This may prevent the rigidiser arm 3302 from moving, thus securing it in place. Otherwise the button-holes 3303, 3304 could be sewn, molded or otherwise closed permanently in order to trap the rigidiser arm 3302 inside the strap 3301.

The split region 3326 at the back may include two, three or more straps for stability. A positioning and stabilising structure 3300 similar to the described, may be used with full face (covering the nose and mouth) or nasal masks also. Other positioning and stabilising structures of prior masks that may have two or more straps at the back (which may be the same width as the side straps) where the lower back strap typically engages against the head of the patient at a position on or lower than the external occipital protuberance. Such back straps are not stretchable or elastic, but may be length adjustable, and the back straps may be biased to return to a default angle to avoid crinkling and twisting at the convergence point with a single side strap. For example, the default angle may be 45 for the split between two back straps in order to cup and engage the patient's head, and the pivoting of the back straps relative to each other are for donning and doffing the patient interface to fix the patient interface into a position to provide tension to a seal-forming structure against the patient's face. The two back straps are biased to return to the 45° angle and therefore only serve the function of cupping the back of the patient's head for stability of the patient interface and cannot maintain any angle that deviates from the 45° angle.

With the use of the present technology, the provision and use of rigidiser arms 3302 may affect the stretchable length of the strap 3301. This may allow the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 to fit a large range of head sizes. This may effectively be a “one size fits most” positioning and stabilising structure 3300, which means that the out of the bag positioning and stabilising structure 3300 is more likely to fit a patient even if the patient has not previously tried or used the positioning and stabilising structure 3300. The present technology may provide a positioning and stabilising structure 3300 that allows easy donning and doffing of the patient interface 3000. In particular, this may mean that, unlike some other positioning and stabilising structures, the tension settings do not have to change and/or are not lost when the mask 3000 is doffed. The rigidiser arms 3302 may define a desired shape that ensures that there is clearance around the eyes and ears for comfort and visibility. The textile of the strap 3301 may allow the skin to breathe and sweat naturally without silicone, foam or plastics creating and retaining surface heat and condensate from perspiration.

The provision of two elastic straps 3317 a, 3317 b at the back of the strap 3301 may allow the patient's head to be cupped and the distribution of the applied force to be adjusted by spreading them and independently changing their position. The two smaller back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b at the back of the head may be equal in length and not adjustable except through the elasticity of the material or through increasing both in tightness equally by shortening the total length at the straps of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300.

Flexible Joint 3305

FIGS. 19, 71 to 73, 75, 76 and 166 also show the connection of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 to the frame 3310 associated with the plenum chamber 3200. Particularly, the joint 3305 at the rigidiser arm 3302 and the frame 3310 may be flexible and/or elastically deformable. Thus, when donned by the patient 1000, the seal-forming structure 3100 may be able to accommodate a variety of nasolabial angles (e.g., as shown in FIG. 2e ). It should be understood, therefore, that the flexibility of this joint 3305 may allow the frame 3310, plenum chamber 3200, and other associated components to move about a number of axes relative to the rigidiser arms 3302. In one form of the present technology, the frame 3310 and the plenum chamber 3200 may be rotatable via the flexible joint 3305 about an axis defined between respective ends of the rigidiser arms 3302. By such an arrangement, the seal-forming structure 3100 may be able to be angled against the inferior region of the patient's 1000 nose over a wide range of possible nasolabial angles.

As can be seen in FIGS. 18, 19, 75, 76 and 166, the seal-forming structure 3100 is retained against the underside of the nose of the patient 1000, one example, against the patient's airways such as the nares. Proper location of the seal forming structure 3100 is a significant factor in achieving an effective seal of the frusto-cone 3140 against the patient's nares such that the leaking of pressurized gas is minimized with minimal retention forces. As the frusto-cone 3140 may extend axially from the stalk 3150 of the seal forming structure 3100, it may be advantageous to allow a degree of flexibility in the orientation of the patient interface 3000 with respect to the patient's nose to achieve an optimal seal. Such flexibility may be advantageous because patients may have a variety of nasolabial angles (see FIG. 2e ) that may need to be accommodated by a common patient interface. This flexibility may be accomplished in an exemplary patient interface 3000 by providing a flexible joint 3305. In an example of the present technology, the flexible joint 3305 may be positioned between the frame 3310 and the rigidiser arm 3302. In such an exemplary arrangement, the frame 3310 may be comprised of a material that facilitates flexing at the flexible joint 3305 with rigidiser arm 3302 of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300. In an alternative arrangement, it may be the rigidiser arm 3302 that may flex via the extension 3350 to allow proper location of the seal-forming structure 3100 against the underside of the patient's nose. Additionally, it is also envisioned that flexing may occur partially at both parts. In any of the envisioned arrangements the desired result is that the patient interface 3000 may be able to rotate with respect to the underside of the patient's nose such that various nasolabial angles may be accommodated. This flexibility provided by the flexible joint 3305 allows the trampoline 3131 to be more effective in providing a comfortable force against the patient's nares or nose. Without the flexible joint 3305, the trampoline 3131 would be less effective at accommodating a variety of alar angles and maintaining stability since the stalks 3150 and plenum chamber 3200 would already be in a partially or fully collapsed state when the tension from the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 holds the seal-forming structure 3100 in sealing position against the patient's airways.

This flexible joint 3305 may be provided by forming the frame 3310 and/or the rigidiser arms 3302 from a material having a modulus of elasticity sufficient to allow flexibility in the joint 3305, while maintaining sufficient stiffness to ensure an effective seal. Additionally or alternatively, the frame 3310 and/or the rigidiser arms 3302 may be shaped structurally to allow for flexibility in this region. In other words, the frame 3310 and/or the rigidiser arms 3302 may be shaped to allow the requisite amount of flexibility in the region of the joint 3305. This may be accomplished by removing portions of these structures such that their stiffness is reduced to allow flexing.

A further possible advantage of this aspect of the technology may be that it reduces the bending moment associated with the rigidiser arms 3302 and the frame 3310. As shown in FIGS. 19, 71 to 73 and 75, the rigidiser arms 3302 may be shaped to conform to the contours of the patient's face. Also, when the seal-forming structure 3100 engages with the patient's nares, they may cause displacement of the frame 3310 due to the relatively limited amount of flexibility between the seal-forming structure 3100, the plenum chamber 3200, and the frame 3310, which are held against the nose by the positioning and stabilising structure 3300. By providing a flexible joint 3305 between the frame 3310 and the rigidiser arms 3302, the bending moment associated with these structures when the patient interface 3000 is donned by the patient may be reduced because some of the associated forces may be dissipated into the flexing of the joint. This may be advantageous because the patient interface 3000 would then be subjected to less force during use to reduce wear and tear. Also, by dissipating these forces into the bending of the flexible joint 3305, bending of the rigidiser arms 3302 and/or the frame 3310 may be reduced. This may be advantageous because if the rigidiser arms 3302 are shaped to conform to the face of the patient, then bending them may reduce the conformity, resulting in discomfort to the patient. The same may be true for bending of the frame 3310 and bending of the frame 3310 may also cause the seal-forming structure 3100 to be displaced from the patient's nose.

It should also be understood that in the arrangement discussed above, it may be advantageous to stiffen the rigidiser arms 3302. By forming the rigidiser arms 3302 from a material that is sufficiently stiff and/or shaping the rigidiser arms 3302 such that they are sufficiently stiff, it may be possible to ensure that the flexible joint 3305 does not allow the seal-forming structure 3100 to displace from the patient's nose. In other words, a proper fit and effective seal may be accomplished by sufficiently stiff rigidiser arms 3302 that maintain the desired degree of conformity to the patient's face while allowing sufficient displacement of the seal-forming structure 3100 such that it can engage the patient's nose and provide an effective seal. The rigidiser arms 3302 may be formed from Hytrel® with a flexural modulus of 180 MPa at 23° C. and a tensile modulus of 180 MPa (26). It should also be understood that in one aspect of the technology, the patient interface 3000 may be structured such that elastic deformation takes place only at the seal-forming structure 3100 and at the flexible joint 3305 between the frame 3310 and the rigidiser arms 3302.

In the example of the present technology described without a flexible joint 3305, the extension 3350 of the rigidiser arm 3302 performs a similar function to the flexible joint 3305 as described above.

Tension Vectors of Positioning and Stabilising Structure

As mentioned above, the exemplary positioning and stabilising structure 3300 may advantageously locate the headgear tension vectors with respect to the patient's head such that the compression vectors associated with the seal-forming structure 3100 are properly aligned with the nose or nares of the patient. As shown in FIGS. 72, 73, 75 and 76, a vector V is depicted to indicate an exemplary direction and magnitude of a force that urges the seal-forming structure 3100 against the nose of the patient 1000 in use. By attaching the exemplary positioning and stabilising structure 3300 operatively to the seal-forming structure 3100, the tension of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 when worn by the patient 1000 may be sufficient to urge the patient interface 3000 against the nose or nares of the patient 1000 with a force having the direction and magnitude of the vector V. The concept of the vectors may be explained as follows. To properly and/or effectively form a seal about the nares of the patient 1000, when using nasal pillows 3130 as depicted in this example of the technology, the seal-forming structure 3100 should be urged against the patient's nares in a direction substantially coaxial to the longitudinal axes of respective stalks 3150 of the seal-forming structure 3100. The magnitude of the force must also be sufficient to allow the seal-forming structure 3100 to seal around the nares, but not so great as to cause discomfort or deformation of the relatively soft seal-forming structure 3100. Therefore, a force of the magnitude and direction depicted as the vector V must be provided to the seal-forming structure 3100. However, it is not ideal to have straps 3301 draped across the eyes and along the sides of the patient's nose or across the ears. This may be uncomfortable and disruptive to the patient 1000. Two point force and vector control allows the strap 3301 to gently stabilise the mask 3000 and pull the nasal pillows 3130 into place and form a pneumatic seal with the patient's airways.

To overcome this problem of needing to provide sealing forces of a requisite direction and magnitude while displacing them from certain regions of the patient's face, the rigidiser arms 3302 and/or frame 3310 described above may be provided. The rigidiser arms 3302 and/or frame 3310 may act as an intermediary for transferring tension forces from the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 to the seal-forming structure 3100, while allowing the straps 3301 to be directed away from the patient's eyes. In other words, the positioning and stabilising structure 3300, by virtue of being in tension, may generate a force at one end of a respective rigidiser arm 3302 and/or frame 3310, which being sufficiently stiff, transmits this force having an equivalent direction and magnitude to its opposite end where the seal-forming structure 3100 is located. Thus, the seal-forming structure 3100 may be urged against the patient's nose to form an effective seal. Said another way, the rigidiser arms 3302 and/or the frame 3310 serve to structurally decouple the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 from the seal-forming structure 3100 while continuing to maintain sealing forces of an adequate direction and magnitude.

As described above, the straps 3301 of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 may surround the rigidiser arms 3302 in certain examples. To facilitate the force decoupling described in the preceding paragraphs while maintaining this sheath-like arrangement of the straps 3301 and rigidiser arms 3302, the rigidiser arms 3302 may comprise a smooth surface along at least a portion thereof. By providing a smooth surface along the rigidiser arms 3302, the straps 3301 of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 may extend and/or compress along the rigidiser arms 3302 in a relatively free and/or low friction fashion. In other words, the straps 3301 float over the rigidiser arms 3302 except at the pocketed ends 3311 where it is secured to the rigidiser arms 3302. Moreover, by reducing friction of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 along the rigidiser arms 3302, extraneous and undesired forces may be avoided, which may in turn result in a loss or disruption of the pneumatic seal of the seal-forming structure 3100 and/or an uncomfortable fit.

Some positioning and stabilising structures of prior masks that have a multi-layered laminated strap where there are layers made from different materials providing different degrees of flexibility permanently laminated to each other. Other positioning and stabilising structures of prior masks use stitching or adhesives to permanently connect the multi-layered strap together. In contrast, the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 of the present technology has a strap 3301 that is releasably engageable with the rigidiser arm 3302. This permits separate washing of the strap 3301 from the rigidiser arm 3302 and frame 3310. The releasable engagement is provided in a small area localised region (the edge of the rigidiser arm 3302 proximal to the frame 3310) using a pocketed end 3311 of the strap 3301 which permits stretch of substantially the entire length of the strap 3301 from the point of connection with the frame 3310. Other positioning and stabilising structures of prior masks may use an adjustment buckle or Velcro™ to adjust the length of one or more headgear straps (usually by shortening the length) in order to adjust the headgear tension of the patient interface 3000 on the patient's face. In contrast, the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 of the present technology does not require length adjustment to adjust the headgear tension and is particularly beneficial for patients with arthritic hands who may lack fine motor skill to be able to properly an adjustment buckle or Velcro™ for headgear tension adjustment, especially in a darkened room.

Manufacturing the Strap

A positioning and stabilising structure 3300 is manufactured to shape (e.g., formed in one piece to shape otherwise known as “fully-fashioning” without the need to cut away any substantial amounts of material) thereby producing little or no waste material. Alternatively, the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 may be divided into segments that are each manufactured to shape separately (e.g., by knitting) and then attached to one another. FIG. 132 demonstrates a single, unitary seamless structure having at least two regions (e.g. the crown portion or rear portion 210 and straps 220), wherein the at least two regions extend from a junction (the junction being the connection between the straps 220 and the rear portion 210), where the straps 220 extend at a different angular orientation to the rear portion 210. The rear portion 210 and straps 220 are formed in a continuous process (i.e. the material that makes up the component and the shape of the component are formed in a single step)—this is different to a process where a sheet of material is made and then cut to shape (this would not be considered a single step). FIG. 132 also shows that the straps 220 branch out or extend at a different angle or direction to the rear portion 210, without requiring seams or additional formation steps.

A knitted component such as a positioning and stabilising structure 3300 is defined as being formed of “unitary knit construction” when constructed as a one-piece knit element that is substantially free of additional stitching or bonding processes.

As shown in FIG. 133, the straps 220 may be formed (e.g., by warp knitting, circular knitting or 3D braiding) as a continuous piece that is subsequently cut as this procedure may further increase manufacturing efficiency.

Knitting various positioning and stabilising structure sections in a continuous manner may be advantageous as there are no or very few additional manufacturing steps that would be required to sew, fuse, adhere or otherwise attach adjoining sections. As a result, the manufacturing process may have reduced steps, the amount of material waste is reduced, there would be virtually no seams in the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 between the adjoining sections, and the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 made of a fabric without distinctive joins or seams may be more comfortable for patients.

Techniques

A number of techniques can be used in accordance with the present technology to manufacture a positioning and stabilising structure 3300 to shape with little or no waste material. The technique may produce a positioning and stabilising structure that is a single, unitary, seamless structure. Techniques that may produce a single unitary seamless structure include mechanical manipulation of yarn including interlooping (such as knitting), interweaving and/or intertwining (including braiding, knotting and crocheting). An alternative technique of 3D printing may also create a positioning and stabilising structure having a unitary, seamless structure.

A manufacturing technique in accordance with the present technology may have one or more of the following features: (1) produces little or no waste; (2) produces a positioning and stabilising structure that is comfortable for the patient; (3) produces a positioning and stabilising structure that is conformable; (4) produces a positioning and stabilising structure that is breathable; (5) produces a positioning and stabilising structure that may minimize facial marking; and/or 6) produces a positioning and stabilising structure that is lightweight.

Interlooping—Knitting

In accordance with an example of the present technology, a positioning and stabilising structure 3300 may be formed by interlooping such as knitting (e.g., threading yarn or thread to form a knitted fabric). The positioning and stabilising structure 3300 may be formed by flat knitting or circular knitting, however other forms of knitting may also be possible. Flat knitting and circular knitting may be advantageous as they are able to create a positioning and stabilising structure 3300 with a unitary, seamless structure. Flat or circular knitting machines may be utilized to create a weft knit or a warp knit. A variety of knitting processes including circular knitting and warp- or weft-flat knitting, may be utilized to manufacture the positioning and stabilising structure component or components. Flat knitting may have some advantages, including but not limited to (1) the ability to locate floating yarns within, for example, a positioning and stabilising structure strap, in order to provide extra cushioning or bulk, and/or (2) the ability to include extra loops of yarns on either the upper or lower surface of the positioning and stabilising structure strap, thus creating the effect of a soft terry cloth material, for example, or creating an unbroken loop fabric for engagement with a hook tape fastener, and/or (3) the ability to knit a 3D dimensional spacer fabric construction adjacent to double-faced knit construction within a single unified positioning and stabilising structure construction.

The positioning and stabilising structure 3300 may be formed primarily from multiple yarns that are mechanically manipulated through an interlooping process to produce a single unitary structure having various sections with different physical properties.

FIG. 134 illustrates the wale of a weft knit fabric 64, or the direction that the loops of one thread join to a loop of another thread. The course 85, or the direction of the loops from a single thread is shown in FIG. 135. FIGS. 136 and 137 illustrate a basic closed loop warp knit 90. FIG. 138 illustrates an example of a warp knit tricot jersey fabric structure in which a yarn is knitted in a vertical direction in a zig-zag manner, capturing other warp yarns, with the wale running somewhat parallel to the course.

Referring to FIGS. 136 to 139, a warp knit 90, 90-1 comprises the wales and courses running parallel to one another, while in a weft knit 100 the wales run perpendicular to the course. The positioning and stabilising structure 3300 of the present technology may be formed by either warp knit or weft knit. A warp knit, for example tricot, raschel or locknit, is typically more resistant to runs, easy to machine, and may utilize multiple yarns (allowing for the use of multiple colors or yarn types). A weft knit 100 can be formed with a single yarn; however, use of multiple yarns is also possible. The positioning and stabilising structure 3300 of the present technology may be constructed of a warp knit or a weft knit.

Knitted fabrics may have different stretchability characteristics compared to woven fabrics. Knitted fabrics are typically more flexible than woven fabrics, which may only stretch in one direction (depending on the yarn they are made from), and therefore may provide a more comfortable fit for the patient. Knitted textiles may be constructed in such a way that the fabric has a two-way stretch—i.e. a first yarn oriented in a first direction has a lower flexibility than a yarn oriented in a second direction. This arrangement may be desirable along the straps of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 such that the straps can stretch along their length but not across their width, or vice versa. Alternatively, the knitted textile may have a four-way stretch i.e. yarn in a first direction and a second direction and both are flexible such that application to a strap would allow stretch in both lengthwise and crosswise directions.

The example of FIG. 142 shows a strap 1200 having a grain or course 1250, and illustrates how the direction of the grain or course affects stretch. The knitted fabric will tend to stretch more readily in the direction of the course. Therefore, the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 may be designed to stretch in certain directions and be more resistant to stretch in other directions. For example, the strap 1200 will tend to stretch in its width direction A (from the patient's face to the back of the head) and may have limited stretch along the length of the strap. This configuration may increase stability of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 in the lengthwise direction while increasing fit range. The strap 1200 may be configured to stretch in certain directions and be resistant to stretch in other directions in order to better enable the strap 1200 to hold a mask assembly on a patient's face in a manner that enhances the seal with the patient's face.

Referring to FIGS. 140 and 141, a knitted strap 1105 includes a top portion 1102, a rear portion 1104, and a lower portion 1106. The lower portion 1106 may bifurcate or branch out at a junction to form the top portion 1102 and the rear portion 1104. The angular orientation of the top portion 1102 may be different compared to the rear portion 1104 e.g. the top portion 1102 may extend at about 30-110 degrees, or about 90 degrees or perpendicular to the rear portion 1104. The direction of the knit, or the grain or course 1150 of the knit, may be altered to adjust the shape or stretch of the fabric in certain areas. For example, the grain or course 1150 may be configured to curve the strap at a cheek region to avoid obstructing the patient's eyes. Further, as shown in FIG. 141, the grain or course 1150 may curve, as shown by the arrows B, to a split thereby forming the top portion 1102 and the rear portion 1104. Such configurations of the top portion 1102 and the rear portion 1104 may stabilize the straps in position on the patient's head and thus better enable the knitted strap 1105 to hold a mask assembly on a patient's face in a manner that enhances the seal with the patient's face.

The knitted strap 1105 may support a patient interface 3000 (e.g., a nasal mask) on the patient's face. A connector 1120 may be used to attach the strap 1105 to the patient interface 3000, and an air circuit 4170 may deliver breathable gas to the patient's airways via the patient interface 3000. In the illustrated example, the patient interface 3000 is positioned under the patient's nose and seals against the external surfaces of the patient's nose.

The positioning and stabilising structure 3300 of the present technology may further comprise a pocket, tunnel, layers and/or ribs. Such positioning and stabilising structures 3300 may be formed in one piece by circular or flat knitting. The pockets or tunnels may be reinforced with materials having a higher stiffness or rigidity than the knitted textile, thereby rigidising the positioning and stabilising structure 3300. Rigidising the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 may better stabilize the mask in position on the user's face. Materials used for rigidising the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 may include plastics such as nylon, polypropylene, polycarbonate, or higher stiffness textiles such as braided ropes. Thus, as used throughout the disclosure, the term “plastic” may include thermoplastics, as well as other similar materials such as nylon and silicone. The rigidising of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 may be positioned at boney regions of the patient's head, for example the cheeks, occiput or crown. The reinforcing structure may be inserted during the knitting process, for example, a stiffer or flatter yarn or a rigid polymer element may be inserted into the knit construction, during or after the knitting process. The strands or rigid components would function to withstand tension and bear the stresses e.g., due to tightening of the positioning and stabilising structure straps for therapy, or to stabilise the mask better, or would assist to act as coupling or fastening agents to attach the positioning and stabilising structure piece(s) to the mask interface.

Alternatively, the pockets or tunnels may be cushioned to add comfort. For example, pockets or tunnels may be filled with foam, gel, floating yarn, looped yarn or other cushioning material.

The positioning and stabilising structure 3300 may be formed by flat knitting or circular knitting, wherein the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 has selvedges. That is, the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 may be formed to have a finished configuration such that the ends of the yarns used to construct the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 are substantially absent from the edges of the positioning and stabilising structure components. An advantage of fashioning the positioning and stabilising structure components to the finished shape is that the yarns are not being cut, and are thus less likely to unravel and may require fewer finishing steps. By forming finished edges, the integrity of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 is maintained or even strengthened and fewer or no post-processing steps are required to either (1) prevent unravelling of the positioning and stabilising structure component and/or (2) create an edge that is distinct yet soft (such as in ultrasonically cutting and sealing a ‘soft edge’ on a fabric-foam-fabric laminate material) and/or (3) enhance the aesthetic and durability characteristics of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300.

The positioning and stabilising structure 3300 of the present technology may be formed by a regular or irregular pique knit. A pique knit will orient a first yarn on the right side (non-patient contacting side that is visible once the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 is donned) and a second yarn on the wrong side (the patient contacting side that is not visible once the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 is donned). That is, the yarn exposed on the right side may be different to the yarn exposed on the wrong side. For example, the yarn on the right side may have a pleasant visual appearance and the yarn on the wrong side may have a nice hand feel for contacting the patient's skin. Alternatively, or in addition, the yarn on the right side may have a first moisture wicking property and the wrong side may have a second moisture wicking property. For example, the yarn on the right side may have a high percentage of microfiber having a first moisture wicking property and the wrong side may have a high percentage of non-microfiber having a second moisture wicking property.

The positioning and stabilising structure 3300 may be formed as a unitary knit structure which may also be uniform in material and properties, for simplicity, but it may be formed as a unitary structure including various sections that have different physical properties, joined in a seamless manner. The various sections may exhibit, for example but not limited to, different degrees of strength, abrasion resistance, wear resistance, flexibility, enhanced durability, higher or lower moisture absorption (moisture absorbability), moisture-wicking ability, water affinity, breathability or air-permeability, liquid permeability, stretch or stretch-resistance, compressibility, cushioning ability, support, stiffness, recovery, fit, and form. The various sections may be constructed to exhibit variations in directional stretch, such as four-way stretch, or bi-directional stretch, a tailored level of stretch resistance, or no stretch. This may be achieved by, for example but not limited to, selecting a particular yarn or knit construction type.

The positioning and stabilising structure 3300 as a unified seamless structure may be formed in one piece with uniform characteristics, or from two or more sections with varying characteristics. The two or more positioning and stabilising structure sections may differ by way of using two or more different yarns of different twist, denier, fibre composition, etc., thus imparting different physical properties to the positioning and stabilising structure 3300. The two or more positioning and stabilising structure sections may differ by way of using two or more various knit stitch types, thus imparting unique physical properties to the two sections.

Whereas one region may incorporate, for example, elastane or PBT (Polybutylene terephthalate polyester) to enhance stretch, the other region may incorporate, for example, nylon or polyester to enhance durability. Similarly, while one region of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 may incorporate yarn with one denier, the other region may include a yarn with a greater or reduced denier, crimp or texture, in order to customize the cushioning, thickness or bulk.

The two or more sections within a positioning and stabilising structure construction may be connected by using tuck stitches or other knit stitches that, for example, join a first section to a second section in a seamless manner. This would be achieved by knitting the first section, then knitting the tuck stitches between the first knitted section and a second knitted section, then knitting the second section. The tuck stitches are utilized to seamlessly connect sections between wales, especially when using a narrow-tube circular knitting machine.

The positioning and stabilising structure piece may be finished without a seam. If it is made with an un-dyed yarn, this may be achieved by finishing the knitting process with a yarn that contains water-soluble fibres. The water-soluble fibers permit the fabric to shrink in the dyeing process and provide a neatly-finished edge, eliminating the need to create an additional seam on the edge.

In order to enhance manufacturing efficiency, knitting machines may also be utilized to form a series of joined positioning and stabilising structure components, such as straps or crown components. That is, the knitting machines may form a single component that includes a plurality of positioning and stabilising structure pieces. Each of the positioning and stabilising structure segments may have substantially identical shapes and sizes. Alternatively, each of the positioning and stabilising structure pieces may even have different shapes and sizes, which may be programmed in sequence. Moreover, a knit release area (which may consist of, for example but not limited to, dissolvable yarns, loosely knitted yarns, finer denier yarns or easy-to-tear placeholder yarns) may be knitted into the series of positioning and stabilising structure components in order to allow the various positioning and stabilising structure parts, for example, straps, to be separated without the need for cutting operations.

Variable Thread Count

In another example, the thread count may vary across the fabric to enhance comfort, fit and/or performance. For example, the thread count may be higher in regions requiring greater stiffness (e.g., cheek region, occiput). In regions (e.g., along the straps) where a lower stiffness is desired, however, the thread count may be lower thereby permitting the material to flex more easily.

The thread count, and therefore the stiffness, may be determined by the type of yarn, the type of stitch (e.g., a criss-cross stitch may be stiff), and the distance between stitches.

Yarn

Yarn may be utilized to create the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 of the present technology. The yarn may be synthetic, and may be twisted or textured, and could be made from, but not limited to nylon, polyester, acrylic, rayon, or polypropylene. The yarn could be a conventional staple yarn, a microfiber yarn, or combination of both. The yarn may incorporate an elastane fiber or filament to provide stretch and recovery properties, such as fibers bearing the LYCRA trademark from the DuPont Company. The yarn may be made of synthetic materials, or natural fibres such as cotton, wool or bamboo, or natural filament such as silk.

The yarns used to construct any component of the positioning and stabilising structure may be formed of a monofilament or a plurality of single filaments, that is, a multifilament yarn.

The yarn may include separate filaments that are each formed of different materials. The yarn may also include filaments that are each formed of two or more different materials, such as bicomponent yarn with filaments having a sheath-core configuration or two halves formed of different materials. Different degrees of twist or crimping, as well as different deniers, may affect the properties of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300.

The materials utilized to construct the positioning and stabilising structure components 2900 may be made recyclable or biodegradable, for example, the yarns may include recyclable or biodegradable fibers or filaments.

Areas of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 subject to greater wear (for example but not limited to areas or regions coming into contact with a patient's pillow), such as an area of positioning and stabilising structure 3300 located at the back of the head or nape of the neck, may possibly be more densely fabricated and may thus be a heavier weight and less extensible. Conversely, this area may be subject to the greatest amount of moisture accumulation through sweat, and therefore may need to be made of a thin, yet strong, net-like construction with a custom aperture pattern. In this case, the abrasion-resistance may need to be inherent in the yarn properties only.

3D Printing

In another example, positioning and stabilising structure 3300 may be manufactured to shape using a 3D printer. As shown in FIG. 143, a 3D printer may be used to print a plurality of connected links 2802 thereby forming a flexible 3D printed textile 2804. Referring to FIG. 144, a positioning and stabilising structure piece 2900 may be formed to include a rigidiser arm 3302. The rigidiser arm 3302 includes holes 2922 through which the links of the textile 2804 may pass as the textile 2804 is printed to integrate the textile 2804 and the rigidiser arm 3302. The rigidiser arm 3302 could be made from any suitable material (e.g., a polymer such as Nylon 12 or a sintered solid from a metal powder, or any other material able to be used as an additive manufacture process). As the additive manufacture (“3D Printing” process technologies improve, it is envisioned that the material selection will become broader for the purposes of 3D printing textiles, with the optional inclusion of a rigid component such as the rigidiser arm 3302. Structure could be inherent in material or by virtue of shape, form or structure.

Further, as shown in FIG. 145, a 3D printed strap 2924 may be integrated into holes 2912(1), 2914(1) of male and female clips 2912, 2914.

Fashioning and Finishing the Strap

FIGS. 79 and 80 show views of the strap 3301 at an intermediate step of production. The exemplary strap 3301 shown is a raw length of strap that has not been cut to length from the knitted material produced, in examples, by the methods and processes described above. For example, a pair of button-holes 3303 can be seen at the left-most end of the strap 3301, however, once finished only hole will be at that end because the raw strap will have been cut between those holes to produce the strap shown in FIG. 81. Also, the knitting process that forms the raw length of strap 3301 shown in FIG. 79 forms multiple split regions 3326 along the length of the strap. However, the finished strap 3301 shown in FIG. 81 only includes one split region 3326. Again, this is because during finishing the strap 3301 will be cut between the right-most button-hole 3303 shown in FIG. 79 to separate the raw length of strap 3301 shown there into multiple straps.

According to one example of the technology, the strap 3301 may be formed using a warp labelling machine with multiple bars to form chains in the fabric. According to another example, the strap 3301 may be formed by a Comez machine with six bars for joining the two side strap portions 3315, 3316 and the two back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b in the center. By adding more bars to the Comez machine more directions of knitting may be accommodated. The knitting process may also include forming the strap 3301 with a different weave at the bifurcation point 3324. The material of the strap 3301 may include a 1740 count. The order of pattern types for knitting a strap 3301 may be as follows: normal, then button-hole, then normal, then split, then normal, then button-hole, and then normal. A subsequent strap 3301 would then be knitted with this same order again going forward for each strap 3301 produced.

In one example of the present technology, the thread used for knitting the strap 3301 may be double helically wound.

To add further strength at potential failure points, the strap 3301 may be formed with extra stitching at these points. Potential failure points may include the button-holes 3303, 3304 and the bifurcation points 3324. Also, additional threads may be knitted along the middle of the strap 3301 for additional reinforcement.

FIG. 80 shows a cross-sectional view of the side strap portion 3316 of FIG. 79 taken through line 80-80. A bifurcation point 3324 can be seen to indicate the split region 3326 of the side strap portion 3316 and the division between the upper back strap portion 3317 a and the lower back strap portion 3317 b.

FIG. 79 also indicates dimensions L₁-L₆ for the various features of the strap 3301. L₁ indicates a distance between a button-hole 3303 of one strap 3301 and a button-hole 3303 of an adjacent strap. In one example of the technology L₁ may be about 515 mm. L₂ indicates a distance between button-holes 3303 of the same strap 3301 and this value may, according to one example, be about 500 mm. L₃ indicates the length of the split region 3326 which may be about 200 mm in one example of the technology. L₄ may indicate the distance between adjacent button-holes 3303 of adjacent straps 3301 and may be about 15 mm in one example. L₅ may indicate the width of a button-hole 3303 and may be about 5 mm in one example. L₆ may indicate the width of the strap 3301 and may be about 15 mm in one example.

FIGS. 81 to 83 show views of a finished strap 3301 according to an example of the present technology. As can be seen in FIG. 81 there is only one split region 3326 and only one button-hole 3303 at each end of the strap 3301. Therefore, it should be understood that this strap 3301 has been cut and finished from the strap 3301 shown in FIG. 79, according to an example of the technology. Also, shown in FIG. 81 is a strap logo 3357 that may be formed on the strap 3301 in the form of a corporate logo or other artwork, for example. The strap logo 3357 may be formed by pad printing or ultrasonic welding. If the strap logo 3357 is formed by ultrasonic welding this may help to splay the back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b at the bifurcation points 3324 to encourage spreading the back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b by the patient 1000 to ensure ideal fitment and strap tension.

FIG. 81 also shows end welds 3311.1, 3313.1. As described above, the side strap portion 3316 may be knitted into a hollow or tube-like shape. Thus, the ends will be open if not closed by welding, for example, which prevents tearing along open ends. The end welds 3311.1, 3313.1 may be formed by ultrasonic welding to seal loose fibers of the strap 3301. While ultrasonic welding may reduce the stretchability of the fabric that comprises the strap 3301 it may serve to reduce fraying at the ends and to add strength at high stress points. Since the end welds 3311.1, 3313.1 are proximal to the respective pocketed ends 3311, 3313 the end welds provide strength for the strap 3301 to be retained to the rigidiser arms 3302 at their respective protruding ends 3306. It should be understood that the pocketed ends 3311, 3313 and their respective end welds 3311.1, 3313.1, according to one example of the technology, are the primary portion of the strap 3301 for retention and/or anchoring to the rigidiser arms 3302. The strap 3301 may lose elasticity after prolonged use but it should be understood that by washing and drying the strap 3301 at least some or all of this elasticity may be recovered.

The StretchWise™ headgear provided by Fisher & Paykel™ for the Pilairo™ mask has a rigid detachable pivotal connection between rigid plastic hooked ends of the headgear strap and rigid plastic vertical bars located on the mask frame. In contrast, the strap 3301 of one example of the present technology does not have a rigid detachable connection between the strap 3301 and the mask frame 3310 which avoids problems such as creep and breakage of hooked ends after repeated engagement and disengagement of rigid components. A significant amount of force is required to materially deform the rigid hooked ends of the StretchWise™ headgear to engage and disengage it from the rigid bars. In contrast, the rigidiser arms 3302 of the present technology are inserted into button-holes 3303 of the strap 3301 and retained in a pocketed end of the strap 3301 without such a significant force because no plastic deformation of either the rigidiser arm 3302 or the strap 3301 is required to connect or disconnect the strap 3301 to and from the mask frame 3310. Another deficiency of the StretchWise™ headgear is that elasticity of the headgear strap does not recover to substantially the original level of elasticity after washing the headgear strap. In other words, the StretchWise™ headgear will become looser over time.

FIG. 82, similar to FIG. 80, shows a cross-sectional view of the strap 3301 taken through line 83-83 of FIG. 81. The bifurcation point 3324 can be seen that indicates the initiation of the split region 3326. Also, the strap logo 3357 can be seen raised from the side strap portion 3316 in this view.

FIG. 83 shows a detailed view of the strap 3301 and particularly shows the strap logo 3357. Also, the bifurcation point 3324 can be seen at the beginning of the split region 3326.

FIG. 81 also shows additional dimensions that describe features of the exemplary strap 3301. L₇ may indicate the distance between the finished end of the strap 3301 at the end weld 3311.1, 3313.1 and may be about 5 mm in one example. L₈ may indicate the width of the end welds 3311.1, 3313.1 and may be about 1 mm in one example.

Plastic Over-Moulding of Textile Portions

As seen in FIGS. 134-140, a positioning and stabilising structure 3300 may be made with a textile material. For example, the textile material may be formed by interloping materials such as by knitting (e.g., threading yarn or thread to form a knitted fabric). Portions of a headgear may also include or consist of a tubular warp knitted elastic textile. As seen in FIG. 146, yarn used for knitting a textile may include a monofilament core 1402 around which a dope dyed set of filaments 1404 are wrapped into a single helix strand of yarn 1400. In one example, monofilament core 1402 includes 200 dtex elastane and filament 1404 includes 75 dtex nylon filaments. Both the diameter of the elastane and the pitch at which it is wrapped may contribute to the final elasticity of the knitted material. Additionally, the thickness of the outer nylon yarn and its success at continuing to cover the elastane when extended both contribute to the comfort. In at least one example, the knitted product consists of 80% nylon and 20% elastane. A textile portion produced using these techniques creates a material having fibers, which have an extension-at-break greater than 200% as well as rapid recovery when tension is released. In some examples, materials may be made with a high reversible extension (e.g., as high as 400 to 800%). In general, breaking strength of the elastane fibers may be approximately 0.7 g/den and elongation before break may range from about 520% to about 610%.

After knitting a textile out of the yarn, a large elastic sheet or ribbon may be formed of the textile. This sheet or ribbon may be cut into the desired shape via any suitable cutting procedure, such as a ultrasonic cutting. When such a textile is used to form a portion of a strap 1410 of a headgear, however, textile end portions 1412 of the strap may fray over time. To address this concern, a second textile ribbon 1414 may be added to textile end portions 1412 to minimize the fraying of the textile (FIG. 147). Second textile ribbon 1414 may be added to textile end portion 1412 by using an adhesive and may be further cut to give it the desired shape. This process may be expensive and complex and may result in a strap that is not durable.

Conventionally, over-moulding involves the moulding of a first plastic material over a second plastic material and is unsuitable for textiles due to deformation of the textile under high heat and/or high pressured flow during the process. The present technology involves over-moulding a plastic material over an elastic textile material to form a desired bond with the textile without degrading or deforming the textile. FIGS. 148A-B illustrate a multi-stage moulding process for molding a plastic portion over a textile material. The plastic-textile moulding process may include two moulding steps. First, textile portion 1412 may be laid flat and a first plastic member 1420 is moulded onto the textile portion 1412 (FIG. 148A). First plastic member 1420 may be substantially L-shaped so as to be disposed over two surfaces 1413 a, 1413 b of textile portion 1412.

With first plastic member 1420 being moulded onto textile portion 1412, the assembled pair may be flipped upside down and a second plastic member 1422 may be moulded onto a third surface 1413 c of textile portion 1412, the third surface being opposite of the first surface 1413 a (FIG. 148B). In this example, second plastic member 1422 is substantially rectangular and equal in length to first plastic member 1420. Additionally, it will be appreciated that second plastic member 1422 also becomes joined to first plastic member 1420 at juncture 1423 a.

It will also be appreciated that the shapes of the first and second plastic pieces may be modified as desired and that the disclosed embodiment is merely exemplary. For example, two L-shaped plastic members may be moulded to a textile portion, each L-shaped member being disposed on portions of two surfaces (e.g., L-shaped portions are disposed end to end, each L-shaped portion being disposed over half of second surface 1413 b). Such a two-stage moulding process like that of FIGS. 148A-B may help to reduce the likelihood of the textile overheating during moulding so as to thereby reduce the likelihood of denaturation or degradation of the textile portion.

FIG. 149 is a schematic representation of a resulting elastic textile portion 1412 having an over-moulded plastic end cap 1425 formed of plastic members 1420,1422. Plastic end cap 1425 adequately prevents fraying of textile portion 1412 and is more durable than conventional end portions. Additionally, manufacturing of a plastic end cap 1425 may be less expensive and simpler than the use of textile ribbons. Moreover, a product having such an end cap may have a higher perceived quality and value than a product having a textile ribbon. As seen in FIG. 149, a brand, part identification or other information 1426 may be easily imprinted onto plastic end cap 1425.

In addition to forming plastic end cap 1425, plastic-textile over-moulding may be desirable for other uses. Although three examples are described, it will be understood that the techniques described herein may be used in any situation where connection between a textile and a plastic component is desired.

FIG. 150 shows patient interface 1430 including an almost-entirely textile mask 1432. Textile mask 1432 may include the textile materials described above including, for example, an elastane monofilament surrounded by a dope dyed set of filaments to form yarn. As shown in FIG. 150, a shape-defining feature 1435 in the form of a plastic nose bridge has been over-moulded onto textile mask 1432 using a technique similar to that described above. Shape-defining feature 1435 may be disposed on a portion of textile mask 1432 to provide proper fitment of the mask, to add shape, structure or comfort to the mask and to increase durability in areas of high use. It will be understood that additional plastic portions may be over-moulded onto a textile mask at other areas including areas adjacent the lips, the cheekbones, the chin, and the like.

In another example, joint portions may be formed of plastic to allow easy coupling and decoupling of a strap from a mask frame. FIGS. 151A-C show patient interface 1440 having frame 1441 and flow conduit 1442. Frame 1441 may be coupleable to textile strap 1447. As seen in detail in FIG. 151B, frame 1441 includes a male plastic member 1444 and textile strap 1447 includes a complementary, over-moulded female plastic member 1445, male plastic member 1444 and female plastic member 1445 being configured to couple to one another to secure textile strap 1447 to frame 1441. In this example, over-moulded female plastic member 1445 provides secure and durable engagement of textile strap 1447 to frame 1441. Such a plastic engagement may allow patients the ability to disassemble the strap from the rest of the patient interface to clean either a mask or a strap, and avoids the need of inserting a rigidiser arm through a headgear strap by providing a hard connection. It will be understood that variations of this concept are possible and that any suitable plastic fastener may be over-moulded to textile strap 1447 to achieve a similar result including hooks, clips, and the like. Additionally, the instant method may be used in other areas on the patient interface where a non-textile-to-textile connection is desired.

In another example, a plastic member may be over-moulded between two textile portions (FIG. 152). As previously described, textile straps of headgear may contain fibers of materials, such as elastane, to add elasticity to the straps. Such materials are typically expensive and the price of the headgear may be significantly reduced if the use of such materials is minimized. In one example, headgear 1450 includes two textile straps 1451,1452. In this example, textile straps 1451,1452 do not include elastane or other similar expensive materials. Instead, to compensate for the loss of elasticity, an over-moulded member 1455 formed of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) or other suitable elastic polymers may be disposed between textile straps 1451,1452 to provide the needed elasticity. In at least one example, over-moulded member 1455 may be formed of a material that is more elastic than the materials of textile straps 1451,1452. Over-moulded member 1455 may be over-moulded to each of textile straps 1451,1452 sequentially or concurrently. A marking 1456 may also be added to over-moulded portion 1455 to signify the origin of the good, a model name or part number.

To further explain the manner of coupling of the plastic portions and the textile portions, cross-sections of an exemplary plastic end cap coupled to a textile portion are shown. FIGS. 153A-C illustrate a first cross-section of a headgear textile strap 1412 having an over-moulded plastic end cap 1425. As shown in these figures, textile fibers 1460 are compressed within plastic end cap 1425, creating friction forces between textile fibers 1460 and the end cap. As shown in the detailed view of FIG. 153C, plastic material 1461 has slipped through gaps in the porous textile fibers 1460 to form mechanical connections within the textile.

FIG. 154A-C illustrate a second cross-sectional view of a headgear textile strap 1412 having an over-moulded plastic member 1425. As shown in these cross-sectional images, during moulding, the plastic material 1461 has migrated into the porous textile fibers 1460 at random regions to form a mechanical connection between the textile and the plastic. Specifically, the heated plastic has flowed through the knit structure of the textile.

In some embodiments, in addition to the mechanical interlocking caused by the molten plastic entering through the gaps in the porous textile under high pressure, frictional forces may also prevent over-moulded plastic portions from being detached from a textile portion due to the interaction of the inner shape of the plastic part and the compression of the textile material beneath the over-moulded part. In such embodiments, plastic portions at any portion of the perimeter may hold a textile portion to provide a clamping force and enhance the shear strength of an assembly.

The material used in the over-moulding process may be selected to create a secure bond without degrading the textile. In some examples, a chemical bond is formed between the textile portion and the plastic portion. Alternatively, no chemical bond is formed and a purely mechanical connection is made between the plastic portion and the textile portion. To ensure that such a connection is properly made without degrading the textile, certain characteristics of the textile portion and the plastic portion may match or complement one another.

As previously described, a textile strap may include 80% polyamid (Nylon) and 20% Elastane. The nylon may, for example, include Nylon 6,6 having a melting temperature of about 255° C. Moreover, the melting point of the elastane may be about 250° C. with an earlier transitional temperature of about 175° C. at which the elastane begins to stick. In some examples, the melting point of the plastic material may be less than the melting point of the textile (including the elastane if present) to prevent the textile from being destroyed during the process. For example, if the melting points of two materials in the strap are 255° C. and 250° C., the melting point of the injected plastic may be approximately 220° C.

By way of example, to complement a textile portion having nylon and elastane, four materials were selected for testing. The materials include TPE-ET DuPont Hytrel 5556, having a melting temperature of about 203-220° C., PP Borealis RF830 MO+NCS S4500 grey 4% having a melting temperature of about 220-250° C., TPE Dynaflex GLS345-156 Mid grey PMS423C having injection processing information that show a nozzle temperature of about 193-216° C., and a thermoplastic such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) having a barrel temperature of about 190-230° C. To accurately gauge the performance of all four materials an injection moulding machine temperature was set at 220° C. for all four of the above materials, and no primers or adhesives were used to form the bond between the above 4 materials and the elastic straps.

The results of the four trials showed that there were no chemical bond when no primers or adhesive were used. Additionally, it was discovered that the moulding temperature is not enough to start bond dissociation and association (e.g., no chemical reactions occurred) between the plastic portion and the textile portion. There may be an absence of chemical bonds and the connections made are purely mechanical as plastic members slipped through the porous textile to lock the two together. In another embodiment, there may be a chemical bond formed. Thus, when the textile is compressed within the plastic member, frictional forces between the textile and plastic material prevented the two materials from being decoupled.

In another variation, a rigid component such as a plastic member may be coupled to a textile breathable gas conduit, such as a tube, hose, or air circuit. For example, as seen in FIG. 154D, conduit 1510 may include a tube or hose extending between a first or proximal end 1512 and a second or distal end 1514 and defining a passageway 1516 therethrough for gas or air delivery to a patient interface and another component, conduit 1510 being formed of a material that includes an air impermeable textile (e.g., a coated textile, such as a plastic or liquid latex-coated textile, or a laminated textile such as a plastic or liquid laminated textile, such as for example, Icarex™ polyester and the like), such that air may travel from proximal end 1512 to distal end 1514 without leaking through the textile material of conduit 1510. While conduit 1510 is shown as being substantially tubular, it will be understood that conduit 1510 may include an oval, square, triangular or irregularly-shaped cross-section.

Conduit 1510 may be coupled to other components of a PAP device, such as a plastic portion 1520. In this example, plastic portion 1520 is configured as a short cylindrical portion forming a lumen 1522 and having a diameter approximately equal to the diameter of conduit 1510 at distal end 1514. Plastic portion 1520 may be over-moulded to distal end 1514 of conduit 1510 in a manner similar to that discussed above with reference to the multi-stage moulding process for molding a plastic portion over a textile material shown in FIGS. 148A-B. FIG. 154E illustrates conduit 1510 after plastic portion 1520 has been over-moulded thereon. An air-tight seal is formed at the junction of conduit 1510 and plastic portion 1520 such that air flowing through passageway 1516 of conduit 1510 is forced through lumen 1522. As seen in FIGS. 154D-E, plastic portion 1520 may further include a female thread 1524 on its inner surface for mating with a complementary thread on a second component, such as for example, a secondary tube or a flow generator. In at least some variations, screws, clips or other coupling elements may be used to mate with the second component instead of threaded engagement. Additionally, plastic portion 1520 may be formed of various shapes and/or sizes and may include oval, elliptical or other-shaped cross-sections as desired.

Likewise, proximal end 1512 of conduit 1510 may be coupled to a component for connection with the patient interface. As seen in FIG. 154F, proximal end 1512 of conduit 1510 is coupled to a second plastic portion 1530 in the shape of an elbow defining a lumen 1532 and a female thread 1534 for threaded engagement with other components of the patient interface. An air-tight seal is formed at the junction of conduit 1510 and plastic portion 1530 such that air flowing through passageway 1516 of conduit 1510 is forced through lumen 1534 of second plastic portion 1530. In some variations, second plastic portion 1530 may be permanently affixed or releasably engaged with other components of the patient interface. Second plastic portion 1530 may also be capable of swivelling at a connection point with the patient interface.

After assembly, four tests were conducted to test the strength and suitability of the four materials. The test included a pull test, a bending test, a washing test, and a weld strength test. Any one or more of the tests may ensure that the moulded textile component has suitable performance characteristics.

1. Pull Test

A pull test may be performed. The test may be employed to determine a pull characteristic of the manufactured component. In the test, the textile 1412 was fixed in a vice 1472 while the plastic end cap 1425 was coupled to an armature fixture 1471. Armature fixture 1471 was gradually moved away from vice 1472 at a cross head speed of 500 mm/min to determine the position of failure (FIGS. 155A-B). Fourteen samples of each of four different materials of plastic end caps were tested. For TPE, failure occurred at a position corresponding to 13 N. For PP, failure occurred at a position corresponding to 78 N. For Hytrel, failure occurred at a position corresponding to 73 N. For TPU, failure occurred at a position corresponding to 83 N. Thus, in some embodiments, the component may have a pull characteristic in a range of 0 to 35 N or preferably greater than 40 N.

2. Bending Test

The second test was a bending test. The bending test assumes that users remove the headgear from the mask system only when they want to wash the headgear, and after wash assemble the headgear back onto the mask system. During disassembly and assembly of the headgear, bending of the end cap might occur. Cleaning is typically recommended once a week. There are 32 weeks in the average 8 month life of the headgear. To ensure the durability of the end cap under bending, 64 bending occurrence were conducted and observed for failure. Four samples of each of the three materials of plastic end caps that passed the previous pull test were subjected to the bending test. Samples of PP subjected to the bending test showed the end cap breaking on the first bending occurrence. Samples of Hytrel subjected to the bending test showed the end cap splitting on the third bending occurrence. Samples of TPU were intact after 64 bending occurrences for all four samples. Thus, in some embodiments, the component may have a bending characteristic being able to pass 32, and preferably more than 64 bending occurrences without failure (e.g., splitting or breaking).

3. Washing Test

Ends caps were also subjected to continuous 160 mins of washing in a washing machine to determine the effects of washing on the assembly. In this example, eight samples of Hytrel and TPU plastic caps were subjected to the washing test. Both materials experiences no separation or cracks. Thus, in some embodiments, the component may have an integrity characteristic of being able to withstand 160 mins of washing in a washing machine without separating from the textile component or cracking.

4. Weld Strength Test

Finally, a weld strength test was conducted at a cross head speed of 500 mm/min. Only four samples of TPU components were subjected to the test and all four samples passed. Thus, in at least some examples, a component may be able to withstand an approximately 40 N force in a weld strength test or greater. The weld test it to determine the strength of the weld.

Table 1, below, illustrates the results of the four test on the four materials.

TABLE 1 Weld Test Pull Bending Test Washing Test Strength (Requirement) Test (No separation (No separation Test [Sample (>40 N) or cracks) or cracks) (>40 N) Size] [14] [4] [8] [4] TPE 13 N NA NA NA PP 78 N End cap NA NA breaks on bend #1 Hytrel 73 N End cap Pass NA splits on bend #3 TPU 83 N Intact Pass Pass

In at least some embodiments, a material is chosen for over-moulding to a textile, the material being capable of passing at least two of the tests described above. In some other embodiment, the material chosen is capable of passing at least three tests. A material may also be chosen which passes all four tests described above.

In some embodiments, a component for a patient interface that directs a supply of pressurised air or breathable gas to an entrance of a patient's airway includes a textile portion includes a first material having a first melting point, and a plastic portion over-moulded to the textile portion, the plastic portion being formed of a second material having a second melting point, the second melting point being less than the first melting point of the first material.

In some examples, the textile portion forms at least one strap of a positioning and stabilising structure for a patient interface device and the plastic portion forms an end cap disposed on an end of the at least one strap to prevent fraying of the at least one strap; and/or the textile portion includes components of a textile mask and the plastic portion forms a shape-defining portion on the textile mask; and/or the shape-defining portion includes a plastic nose bridge; and/or the textile portion forms at least one strap of a positioning and stabilising structure for a patient interface device and the plastic portion forms a connector for coupling the at least one strap to a patient interface; and/or the connector includes a female plastic member for coupling to a male plastic member on the patient interface; and/or the textile portion forms two straps coupled to the plastic portion at opposing ends of the plastic portion; and/or the second material of the plastic portion is more elastic than the first material of the textile portion; and/or the plastic portion comprises two plastic members that are over-moulded to the textile portion on at least two opposing surfaces of the textile portion; and/or the two plastic members are over-moulded sequentially to the textile portion; and/or at least one of the two plastic members is substantially L-shaped; and/or at least one of the two plastic members is substantially rectangular; and/or the two plastic members are over-moulded on three surfaces of the textile portion; and/or the second material of the plastic portion comprises a thermoplastic polyurethane; and/or the textile portion further includes a third material, the third material being formed of elastane; and/or the textile portion and the plastic portion are coupled to each other without a chemical bond; and/or the second melting point is approximately 220° C.; and/or the first melting point is approximately 225° C.; and/or the textile portion includes a knitted structure of two materials, the knitted structure defining gaps between the two materials, and wherein the plastic portion is over-moulded to the textile portion such that at least a part of the plastic portions pass through the gaps of the textile portion; and/or 20. The component for a patient interface of claim 1, wherein the second material of the plastic portion includes at least one of TPE-ET DuPont Hytrel 5556, PP Borealis RF830 MO+NCS S4500 grey 4% and TPE Dynaflex GLS345-156 Mid grey PMS423C; and/or the textile portion and the plastic portion are able to withstand a pull test up to 40 N without failing; and/or the textile portion and the plastic portion are able to withstand a bending test up to 64 bending occurrences without failure; and/or the textile portion and the plastic portion are able to withstand a washing test by being able to withstand 160 minutes of washing in a washing machine without failure; and/or the textile portion and the plastic portion are able to withstand a weld strength test up to 40 N without failing.

In some embodiments, a method for manufacturing a patient interface for the treatment of respiratory disorders includes forming a textile portion from a first material having a first melting point, and over-moulding a plastic portion onto the textile portion, the plastic portion being formed of a second material having a second melting point, the second melting point being less than the first melting point of the first material.

In some examples, over-moulding a plastic portion includes over-moulding a first plastic member onto a first surface of the textile portion and over-moulding a second plastic member onto a second surface of the textile portion; and/or the first plastic member is substantially L-shaped and the second plastic member is substantially rectangular; and/or the first plastic member and the second plastic member are moulded sequentially; and/or the textile portion and the plastic portion are able to withstand a pull test up to 40 N without failing; and/or the textile portion and the plastic portion are able to withstand a bending test up to 64 bending occurrences without failure; and/or the textile portion and the plastic portion are able to withstand a washing test by being able to withstand 160 minutes of washing in a washing machine without failure; and/or the textile portion and the plastic portion are able to withstand a weld strength test up to 40 N without failing.

In some embodiments, a device for providing a supply of pressurised air or breathable gas to a patient includes a breathable gas conduit formed of a textile portion and extending between a first end and a second end, the conduit defining a passageway therethrough for delivery of the air or breathable gas, and at least one plastic portion over-moulded to at least one of the first end and the second end of the conduit, the least one plastic portion being formed of a second material having a second melting point, the second melting point being less than the first melting point of the first material.

Donning the Patient Interface and Positioning and Stabilising Structure

An exemplary patient interface 3000 and positioning and stabilising structure 3300 may be donned in a simple yet adjustable manner according to various examples of the present technology. As will be described in greater detail below, FIGS. 84 to 112 depict various sequences of a wearer (i.e., a patient) 1000 donning and adjusting the patient interface 3000 and positioning and stabilising structure 3300.

FIGS. 84 to 88 show a series of perspective views of a patient 1000 donning the patient interface 3000 and positioning and stabilising structure 3300. In FIG. 84 the patient 1000 begins donning the patient interface 3000 and positioning and stabilising structure 3300 by holding the patient interface 3000 and placing the seal-forming structure 3100 against the nose. FIG. 85 then shows the patient 1000 beginning to don the positioning and stabilising structure 3300. The patient 1000 pulls the strap 3301 near the split region 3326 with one hand while holding the patient interface 3000 with the other hand to stretch the strap 3301 over the head. FIG. 86 then shows the patient 1000 pulling the strap 3301, while still holding the split region 3326 with one hand and the patient interface 3000 with the other, further towards the back of the head. At the completion of this step the strap 3301 should be located at the back of the head near the crown and near or above the occipital lobe so that proper tension sealing force is placed on the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 to hold the patient interface 3000 against the patient's 1000 nose. FIG. 87 then shows the patient 1000 adjusting the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 to locate the rigidiser arms (not visible in these views) under the cheek bones and to adjust the fit of the seal-forming structure 3100 against the nose to ensure a complete seal. By locating the rigidiser arms 3302 under the cheek bones the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 may be prevented from riding up on the face of the patient 1000 and into the patient's line of sight. FIG. 88 then shows the patient 1000 with the patient interface 3000 and positioning and stabilising structure 3300 donned and prepared for therapy.

FIGS. 89 to 93 show a series of side views of a patient 1000 donning the patient interface 3000 and positioning and stabilising structure 3300. FIG. 89 shows the patient 1000 holding the patient interface 3000 in one hand and raising it toward the nose while holding the strap 3301 of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 in the other hand. At this point the strap 3301 may not be significantly stretched. FIG. 90 shows the patient 1000 locating the patient interface 3000 against the nose, particularly the seal-forming structure 3100, with one hand and pulling the strap 3301 of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 to stretch it over the head with the other hand. A separation at the split region 3326 can be seen as well due to the pulling of the strap 3301. FIG. 91 shows the patient 1000 still holding the seal-forming structure 3100 and the patient interface 3000 against the nares while pulling the strap 3301 of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 further toward the back of the head. At this point, the initial step of donning the patient interface 3000 and positioning and stabilising structure 3300 should be nearly complete such that the strap 3301 is located against the back of the patient's 1000 head. FIG. 92 then shows the patient 1000 adjusting the seal-forming structure 3100 and the patient interface 3000 against the nose to ensure a proper seal and proper location of the rigidiser arms 3302 relative to the cheek bones. FIG. 93 then shows the patient 1000 with the patient interface 3000 and positioning and stabilising structure 3300 donned and prepared for therapy.

FIGS. 94 to 98 show a series of front views of a patient 1000 donning the patient interface 3000 and positioning and stabilising structure 3300. FIG. 94 shows the patient 1000 beginning to don the patient interface 3000 and positioning and stabilising structure 3300. Holding the patient interface 3000 with one hand and the strap 3301 of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 with the other hand, the patient 1000 raises the patient interface and positioning and stabilising structure toward the face. FIG. 95 shows the patient 1000 with the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 in one hand and the strap 3301 slightly stretched. FIG. 95 also shows the patient interface 3000 held in the other hand and near the nose for placing the seal-forming structure 3100 against the nose. FIG. 96 shows the patient 1000 having stretched and pulled the strap 3301 of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 over the head and locating the strap 3301 against the back of the head while holding the seal-forming structure 3100 and the patient interface 3000 against the nose. FIG. 97 shows the patient 1000 then adjusting the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 and the patient interface 3000 by locating the rigidiser arms 3302 in a comfortable position to seat under the cheek bones so that the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 does not ride up into the patient's line of sight and a seal can be maintained against the nares with the seal-forming structure 3100. FIG. 98 then shows the patient 1000 with the patient interface 3000 and positioning and stabilising structure 3300 donned and prepared for therapy.

FIGS. 99 to 104 show a series of perspective views of a patient 1000 donning the patient interface 3000 and positioning and stabilising structure 3300. FIG. 99 shows the patient 1000 beginning to don the patient interface 3000 and positioning and stabilising structure 3300 by stretching the strap 3301 while holding the strap 3301 with one hand and the patient interface 3000 with the other hand. FIG. 100 then shows the patient 1000 placing the patient interface 3000 and positioning and stabilising structure 3300 on the head by raising the patient interface 3000 toward the face and pulling the strap 3301 over the back of the head. FIG. 101 then shows the patient 1000 placing the seal-forming structure 3100 against the nares with one hand while holding the strap 3301 in a stretched state near the back of the head. FIG. 102 then shows the patient 1000 locating the strap 3301 at the back of the head by beginning to release its tension sealing force. The patient 1000, in FIG. 102, is still holding the patient interface 3000 against the nose to ensure that a proper seal is retained as tension sealing force is released from the strap 3301. FIG. 103 shows the patient 1000 adjusting the patient interface 3000 against the nares to ensure a proper fit and seal as well as to locate the rigidiser arms under the cheek bones. FIG. 104 then shows the patient 1000 with the patient interface 3000 and positioning and stabilising structure 3300 donned and prepared for therapy.

FIGS. 105 to 107 show perspective views of the patient 1000 adjusting the patient interface 3000 against the nares to ensure a proper seal by the seal-forming structure 3100. From FIG. 105 to FIG. 107 the patient 1000 can be seen tilting the patient interface 3000 progressively further downward and against the nose to complete the seal against the nose with the seal-forming structure 3100. These views show the patient 1000 adjusting the patient interface 3000 with one hand, although it should be understood that the patient interface 3000 could be located and adjusted with two hands.

FIGS. 108 to 112 show a series of rear views of a patient 1000 adjusting the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 against the back of the head. FIG. 108 shows the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 resting against back of the head. The strap 3301 will have its largest amount of tension sealing force in this position. FIG. 109 then shows the patient 1000 grasping the upper back strap portion 3317 a with one hand and the lower back strap portion 3317 b with the other hand and pulling these back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b apart at the split region 3326. It should be understood that by pulling these back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b apart that the tension sealing force in positioning and stabilising structure 3300 is decreasing from the position shown in FIG. 108 because the back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b are becoming nearer to the patient interface 3000, which is resting in a constant position against the nares. By moving the back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b closer to the patient interface 3000, the stretched length of the strap 3301 is decreased thus decreasing its tension sealing force. FIG. 110 is similar to FIG. 109, however in this view the patient 1000 has pulled the upper back strap portion 3317 a and the lower back strap portion 3317 b further apart. It should be understood that the tension sealing force in the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 has decreased further due to the spreading of the back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b. FIG. 111 shows a further view of the patient 1000 spreading the upper back strap portion 3317 a and the lower back strap portion 3317 b apart. Tension sealing force will be decreased again from the position shown in FIG. 110. Also, at this point the patient 1000 has nearly completed adjustment of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 to the desired level of tension sealing force. The upper back strap portion 3317 a may be located near the top of the head and the lower back strap portion 3317 b may be located near or below the occipital lobe. FIG. 112 then shows the patient 1000 with the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 fully adjusted to a desired level of tension sealing force. Again, the upper back strap portion 3317 a may be located near the top of the head and the lower back strap portion 3317 b may be located near or below the occipital lobe. Furthermore, it should also be understood that as the tension sealing force in the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 decreases as the upper back strap portion 3317 a and the lower back strap portion 3317 b are pulled apart, θ increases accordingly. Although not indicated in these views θ may be about 0° in FIG. 108 and it increases through the adjustment sequence. If θ has increased to a maximum of about 180° in FIG. 112, then the tension sealing force in positioning and stabilising structure 3300 may be about 40% of the tension sealing force in FIG. 108. In another example of the present technology, it may be possible to maintain angle θ at a predetermined value at the initial point of bifurcation of the upper back strap portion 3317 a and lower back strap portion 3317 b, for example, if the rigidiser arm 3302 extends to the bifurcation point 3324 and splits into upper and lower arms both extending slightly into the back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b. This may encourage the patient 1000 to split the back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b to adjust headgear tension. Also, it reinforces the bifurcation point 3324, for example, using an external seam tape or a plastic clip on the Y-shaped section where a side strap portion 3315, 3316 converges with the back strap portions 3317 a, 3317 b. Such a plastic clip may provide a branding opportunity by pad printing branding and logo information on it.

In one form of the present technology, the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 has two points of connection with the frame 3310 and hence there are two rigidiser arms 3302 and a single hollow strap 3301 with split region 3326. One problem with this type of patient interface 3000 is that the split region 3326 may ride up or down depending on which back strap portion 3317 a, 3317 b has more pull. In order to this problem, the split region 3326 that contacts the back of the patient's head has an even distribution in pull in either direction (top to bottom). Therefore the problem of riding up or down is alleviated.

The positioning and stabilising structure 3300 may comprise at least one strap 3301 and at least one rigid element or rigidiser arm 3302 (see, e.g., FIG. 19). The strap may be made of an elastic material and may have elastic properties. In other words, the strap 3301 may be elastically stretched, e.g., by a stretching force and, upon release of the stretching force, returns or contracts to its original length. The strap 3301 may be made of or comprise any elastomeric material such as elastane, TPE, silicone etc. The strap material may also represent a combination of any of the above materials with other materials. The strap 3301 may be a single layer or multilayer strap. The sides of the strap 3301, particularly the sides for contacting the patient during use, may be woven, knitted, braided, molded, extruded or otherwise formed. This may be achieved by the strap 3301 being made of or comprising a layer of a material exhibiting the respective properties. The strap 3301 may comprise or is made of a textile material such as a woven material. Such material may comprise artificial or natural fibers for, on the one hand providing desired and beneficial surface properties such as tactile properties. On the other hand, the strap material may include elastomeric material for providing the desired elastomeric properties.

In the FIGS. 65 to 145, the strap 3301 is shown as being one individual strap for being attached, directly or via the frame 3310, to a seal-forming structure 3100. However, it may be appreciated that the strap 3301 may comprise multiple individual straps which are or may be connected to one another. Adjustment may be provided, however, by varying where the strap is secured to a patient interface or other rigid elements such as a connector. In addition or alternatively, adjustment could be allowed by adding a mechanism, such as slide over ladder lock clips on the back or side straps (as shown, e.g., in FIGS. 75, 76 and 166) or by otherwise adjusting the elastic length of the strap 3301 and positioning and stabilising structure 3300, respectively.

Rigidiser Arm 3302

As can be seen in FIG. 19, an example of the present technology may comprise stiffened headgear to retain the patient interface 3000 on the patient 1000. As shown in the drawings depicting this example, the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 may contain at least one rigidiser arm 3302.

In the present example of the technology, the seal-forming structure 3100 of the patient interface 3000 is retained in a desired position on the underside of the nose of the patient 1000 by the support of rigidiser arms 3302. The positioning and stabilising structure 3300 may locate the patient interface 3000 such that it does not contact the patient 1000 except at the seal-forming structure 3100.

In certain prior art examples the patient interface may be designed to at least partially rest against the upper lip of the patient and in doing so the face of the patient's upper lip provides a measure of support to retain the patient interface in a desired location, as described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,900,635. In the present example, however, it is desired that the patient interface 3000 not rest against the upper lip of the patient 1000, as can be seen in FIGS. 18 and 19. Particularly, FIG. 19 shows the posterior wall 3220 of the plenum chamber 3200 is shown separated from the septum and/or upper lip of the patient 1000 by a gap or spacing S. This arrangement has the advantage of preventing irritation or injury to the patient 1000 at the septum and/or upper lip by contact and friction with the posterior wall 3220 of the plenum chamber 3200 during extended periods of wear. Avoidance of concentrated pressure on certain locations of the septum and/or the upper lip can prevent skin breakdown and sores from forming.

The arrangement of this particular example, wherein the patient's septum and/or upper lip is separated from the posterior wall 3220 of the plenum chamber 3200 is accomplished by rigidiser arm 3302, as can be seen in FIGS. 19 and 166. As shown in FIG. 19, the rigidiser arm 3302 of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 may be supported against the cheek of the patient 1000, approximately above the nasolabial sulcus (see FIG. 2c ). The rigidiser arm 3302 of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 may be formed with a predetermined curve at the curved profile 3323 to approximate the curve of the patient's corresponding cheek region until the patient's cheekbone. The rigidiser arm 3302 may extend across a substantial portion of the cheek region from the point of connection with the frame 3310 until the distal free end 3302.1 of the rigidiser arm 3302. The distance between the point of connection with the frame 3310 until the distal free end 3302.1 of the rigidiser arm 3301 is about 120 mm. Rigidiser arm 3302 may extend at an angle, e.g., approximately a right angle, away from the patient's face and substantially parallel to the nasal ala. In other words, an inner surface of the main section 3333 of the rigidiser arm 3302, in particular, the curved profile 3323 contacts and extends across a substantial portion of the patient's cheek region. This contact results in the locating and locking the patient interface 3000 on the patient's face at semi-fixed position. This contact minimises any vertical movement of the rigidiser arms 3302 relative to the patient's face. Also, at least a region of the curved profile 3323 proximal to the sharp bend 3307 is intended to maintain contact with the patient's cheekbone or cheek. When the patient 1000 lies with one side of their face against a bed pillow, the force exerted against the rigidiser arm 3302 and/or some of the extension 3350 or flexible joint 3305 on the bed pillow is minimised or prevented from transmitting to the other rigidiser arm because the sharp bend 3307 and extension 3350 of that rigidiser arm 3302 largely absorb such a force before affecting the seal with the patient's airways. In other words, lateral force acting upon the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 is at least partially decoupled because the region of the curved profile 3323 is in contact with the patient's cheek and there is some absorption of this force by the extension 3350 or flexible joint 3305.

Rigidiser arm 3302 may also provide a supported decoupling of the patient interface 3000, such that the patient interface 3000 may be located in a desirable position at the underside of the patient's nose with the tension forces of positioning and stabilising structure 3300 retaining the patient interface 3000 in position not causing undesirable contact of the patient interface 3000 against the septum and/or upper lip. Furthermore, the rigidiser arm 3302 may be dimensioned such that the posterior wall 3220 is distance from the patient's septum and/or upper lip by spacing S. Additionally, the tension of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 is transmitted primarily to the patient's cheeks across the width and breadth of rigidiser arm 3302 and not against inwardly towards the face of the patient 1000 against the nose. This exemplary arrangement is advantageous because using the tissue of the cheeks, a relatively large region of the face, to dissipate retention forces may afford the patient greater comfort, as opposed to using the patient's nose and/or upper lip, which may be more sensitive due to its cartilaginous nature. This exemplary arrangement also allows the seal-forming structure 3100 to be retained with an amount of force sufficient to create a seal against the patient's airways at the underside of the patient's nose, while not allowing the retention force to rise to the level of causing discomfort to the patient 1000.

It may be desirable to avoid contact between the rigidiser arms 3302 and the plenum chamber 3200. Thus, the plenum chamber 3200 may be made sufficiently wide so as to avoid contact with the rigidiser arms 3302.

The Connection Between a Mask Frame and a Rigidiser Arm

According to examples of the present technology to be described in greater detail below in reference to FIGS. 35 to 64, the patient interface 1000 may include a mask frame 3310 and a rigidiser arm 3302. As will become apparent from the following description the rigidiser arm 3302 may function to direct the vector of tension generated by a strap 3301 or straps of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 in a desired direction so as to ensure effective sealing of the seal-forming structure 3100 against the patient's airways, while directing straps 3301 of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 away from the patient's eyes and line of sight. Thus, it should also be understood that the rigidiser arm 3302 and the mask frame 3310 must be formed and connected to facilitate an effective direction of the sealing force. It may be advantageous to allow the rigidiser arm 3302 to flex relative to the mask frame 3310 to accommodate the various shapes and sizes of patients' faces and heads. To improve patient comfort, the direction and degree of flexing between the rigidiser arm 3302 and the mask frame 3310 may be specifically controlled. A flexible joint 3305 may accomplish this or the rigidiser arm 3302 may be directly connected to the mask frame 3310.

A Flexible Joint to Connect a Rigidiser Arm and a Mask Frame

Referring to FIGS. 35 to 38, a patient interface 3000 is provided generally comprising a mask frame 3310, a rigidiser arm 3302 and a flexible joint 3305. A retaining structure 3242 may be removably detachable with the mask frame 3310. The retaining structure 3242 may hold a seal-forming structure 3100 on the mask frame 3310. The rigidiser arm 3302 may be made from a thermoset or thermoplastic. For example, Hytrel® 5556 manufactured by DuPont™ is a thermoplastic polyester elastomer which exhibits excellent creep resistance and may be used as the material for the rigidiser arm 3302. The rigidiser arm 3302 may be part of a positioning and stabilising structure 3300 to locate and retain the mask frame 3310 in position on a patient's face for delivery of respiratory therapy. In one example, the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 has two rigidiser arms 3302 at its distal ends. Each rigidiser arm 3302 may be permanently connected to opposite sides of the mask frame 3310.

An elastic fabric strap 3301 may be slipped over each rigidiser arm 3302 to form the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 as disclosed, for example, in U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/676,456, filed Jul. 27, 2012, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. The elastic fabric strap 3301 may extend around the head of the patient 1000 and may be bifurcated to provide self-adjustment. The rigidiser arm 3302 may also include a protruding end 3306 that retains a pocketed end of the elastic fabric strap 3301. In an example, the rigidiser arm 3302 is inserted through a button-hole proximal to the pocketed end and into the hollow elastic fabric strap 3301. When the elastic fabric strap 3301 is stretched as the patient interface 3000 is donned, the direction of stretch and headgear tension vector of the elastic fabric strap 3301 is guided by the shape and profile of the rigidiser arm 3302. The protruding end 3306 is a fixed anchor at the base of the rigidiser arm 3302 proximal to the mask frame 3310 and provides the starting point for the stretch of the elastic fabric strap 3301. The protruding end 3306 permits the elastic fabric strap 3301 to be connected and disconnected from the rigidiser arm 3302 to facilitate washing of the elastic fabric strap 3301 separately from the mask frame 3310 and rigidiser arms 3302. The rigidiser arm 3302 also frames the face by keeping the elastic fabric strap 3301 away from the eyes and over the ears which leads to the patient interface 3000 being perceived as unobtrusive by the patient. The rigidiser arm 3302 may be generally a planar arm of a predetermined thickness. The thickness of the rigidiser arm 3302 may vary along its length and may be about 1 mm at a distal free end 3302.1 and gradually increases in thickness to 1.5 mm along the curved profile 3323 until the distal portion of the rigidiser arm 3302 proximal to the point of connection with the flexible joint 3305. Since the distal free end 3302.1 has less material relative to the other areas of the rigidiser arm 3302 there is a tendency for any flexing of the rigidiser arm 3302 to occur on or proximal to the distal free end 3302.1 first before other areas of the rigidiser arm 3302 start to flex. The order of flexing is intended to improve comfort because the distal free end 3302.1 is close to the patient's ears, cheekbones and temples which can be a particularly sensitive region of the face and conformity and less resistance to bending and deformation may be required. A sharp bend 3307 may be provided at a distal portion of the rigidiser arm 3302 proximal to the point of connection with the flexible joint 3305. The sharp bend 3307 may be at an angle of substantially 90 degrees or less. The sharp bend 3307 may also provide increased rigidity to fix the rigidiser arm 3302 in position relative to the mask frame 3310. The sharp bend 3307 may prevent or minimise stretching in a longitudinal direction. Also, the sharp bend 3307 may accommodate compression of the rigidiser arm 3302. If a force is applied to the side of a rigidiser arm 3302 in the coronal plane, the majority of the flexing may occur at or proximal to the sharp bend 3307.

The flexible joint 3305 may be provided between the rigidiser arm 3302 and the mask frame 3310. The flexible joint 3305 may be made from thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) which provides high elastic properties. For example, a Dynaflex™ TPE compound or Medalist® MD-115 may be used. The mask frame 3310 may be made from polypropylene (PP) material. PP is a thermoplastic polymer with good resistance to fatigue. An advantage of the flexible joint 3305 may be that it enables the rigidiser arm 3302 and the mask frame 3310 to be permanently connected to each other. Hytrel® and PP cannot be integrally bonded to each other by forming covalent or hydrogen bonds. Integrally bonded includes chemically bonded but without the use of an added adhesive substance. In an example, the rigidiser arm 3302 is provided with a protrusion 3309 that extends outwardly from the distal portion of the rigidiser arm 3302. Turning to FIG. 38, the inner side 3318 of the protrusion 3309 is the surface of the rigidiser arm 3302 that the protrusion 3309 extends from. An outer exposed side 3319 of the protrusion 3309 is opposite the inner side 3318 (see FIG. 38). The protrusion 3309 may have a void 3320 in a central region of the protrusion 3309. The void 3320 may extend substantially vertically through the protrusion 3309 from a top side 3321 to a bottom side 3322 of the protrusion 3309, and may be enclosed around its perimeter by the protrusion 3309. The outer side 3319 may be a substantially planar surface that extends beyond the protrusion 3309. When viewed from above, the protrusion 3309 may have a generally T-shaped cross section with the void 3320 visible in the central region. The protrusion 3309 may also serve to retain the elastic fabric strap alternatively or in addition to the protruding end 3306.

Another advantage of the flexible joint 3305 may be that it is relatively more flexible than the rigidiser arm 3302. This flexibility may be provided by the combination of the TPE material and also the structural features of the flexible joint 3305. Structurally, the flexible joint 3305 may have a predetermined thickness to enable a predetermined degree of flexing, and also the amount of curvature of the flexible joint 3305 may be selected to contribute to the degree of flexing. The flexible joint 3305 may be able to flex radially on its longitudinal axis relative to the mask frame 3310 but may be resistant to flexing in other directions. This flexibility may provide a self-adjustment function to the patient interface 3000 and may compensate for deviations to facial contours, nose dips or sleeping positions. This flexing may accommodate the anthropometric range of most patients. Greater flexibility may be required at this location compared to the flexibility within the rigidiser arm 3302 itself. Also, since flexing is restricted to a certain direction, stability of the mask frame 3310 may be improved and the position of the mask frame 3310 may be substantially maintained relative to the nose and mouth if the elastic fabric of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 requires adjustment.

The flexible joint 3305 may be overmolded to the mask frame 3310. PP and TPE can be integrally bonded to each other. In other words, a fusion bond or chemical bond (molecular adhesion) between the flexible joint 3305 and the mask frame 3310 is possible. This may form a permanent connection between the flexible joint 3305 and mask frame 3310. The flexible joint 3305 may be overmolded to the protrusion 3309 of the rigidiser arm 3302. TPE and Hytrel® cannot be integrally bonded to each other. However, during overmolding in accordance with an example of the present technology, the TPE material for the flexible joint 3305 flows into the void 3320 of the protrusion 3309 and around the protrusion 3309. TPE material surrounds the front and rear sides and the top and bottom sides 3321, 3322 of the protrusion 3309. Consequently, a mechanical interlock may be provided to form a permanent connection between the flexible joint 3305 and the rigidiser arm 3302.

The outer side 3319 of the protrusion 3309 may be flush with the outer surface of the flexible joint 3305. This is visually aesthetically pleasing.

Referring to FIGS. 42 to 46, in another example, at the distal end of the rigidiser arm 3302 may be an extension 3350. The extension 3350 may project from the outer surface of the rigidiser arm 3302 via a stem 3361. The extension 3350 may be L-shaped when viewed from above. The extension 3350 may have a sharp bend 3307 of approximately 90 degrees which separates a first section 3363 from a second section 3364 of the extension 3350. The first section 3363 may be oriented in a plane that is parallel to the outer surface of the rigidiser arm 3302 at the distal end. The end 3363A of the first section 3363 may have curved corners. The second section 3364 may have a height and thickness that is less than the first section 3363. Therefore the top and bottom edges of the second section 3364 may be set back from the top and bottom edges of the first section 3363. The rigidiser arm 3302 may also include a protruding end 3306 that retains a pocketed end 3311 of the elastic fabric strap 3301. The stem 3361 may also serve to retain the elastic fabric strap alternatively or in addition to the protruding end 3306.

The second section 3364 may have a first protrusion 3365 and a second protrusion 3366. The protrusions 3365, 3366 may extend laterally in an outwardly direction from the rigidiser arm 3302. Adjacent to the first protrusion 3365 may be a first slot 3367 and adjacent to the second protrusion 3366 may be a second slot 3368. The slots 3367, 3368 each may provide a void through the thickness of the second section 3364 and may have approximately the same height as the protrusions 3365, 3366.

A flexible joint 3305 made from TPE may be overmolded to the second section 3364 of the extension 3350 of the rigidiser arm 3302. During overmolding, TPE material may flow through the slots 3367, 3368 and surround the protrusions 3365, 3366. The majority of the second section 3364 may be enclosed by the TPE material of the flexible joint 3305. This may provide a mechanical interlock which enables the flexible joint 3305 to be permanently connected to the rigidiser arm 3302. Since the second section 3364 may have a height and thickness that is less than the first section 3363, the TPE material overmolded to the second section 3364 may not excessively protrude beyond the first section 3363. The flexible joint 3305 may also be overmolded to the mask frame 3310 to connect the flexible joint 3305 and the rigidiser arm 3302 thereto.

Similar to the previously described example, greater relative flexibility may be provided by the flexible joint 3305 relative to the rigidiser arm 3302. Flexing in this location and the control of the direction of flexing, may accommodate the anthropometric range of most patients and maintains stability of the patient interface 3000 in use.

A Direct Connection Between a Rigidiser Arm and a Mask Frame

Referring to FIGS. 39 to 41, in another example, a flexible joint 3305 made from TPE may not be required. An extension 3350 may be used. The rigidiser arm 3302 may have a main body or main section 3333 comprising the curved profile 3323 and sharp bend 3307. The rigidiser arm 3302 may also include a protruding end 3306 that retains a pocketed end of the elastic fabric strap. Along a majority of its longitudinal axis, a curved profile 3323 may be shaped to correspond to an obtuse angle to closely follow the contour of the face of a patient. At the distal end of the rigidiser arm 3302, an extension 3350 may be provided after the sharp bend 3307. The extension 3350 may project outwardly from the rigidiser arm 3302 in the coronal plane. A recess 3329 (see FIGS. 40, 50, 57, 58) may be defined in a surface of the rigidiser arm 3302 at the point the extension 3350 projects from the rigidiser arm 3302. The height of the extension 3350 may be less than the height of the main section 3333 of the rigidiser arm 3302. This may enable greater flexibility for the extension 3350 compared to the main section 3333 of the rigidiser arm 3302 because of a relative reduction of material for the extension 3350 relative to the rigidiser arm 3302. The rigidiser arm 3302 including the extension 3350 may be made from Hytrel®. Hytrel® provides the rigidiser arm 3302 with a flexural modulus of 180 MPa at 23° C. and a tensile modulus of 180 MPa (26). The enclosable section 3354 of the extension 3350 may be overmolded by the PP material of the mask frame 3310 at the edge of the mask frame 3310. This is performed in-mold and during overmolding, the PP material of the mask frame 3310 may surround the inner, outer, top and bottom surfaces of the enclosable section 3354 to permanently connect the rigidiser arm 3302 with the mask frame 3310 via a mechanical interlock. The encapsulation of the enclosable section 3354 of the extension 3350 by the PP material of the mask frame 3310 provides a mechanical retention without an integral bond between the rigidiser arm 3302 and the mask frame 3310.

The connection between the rigidiser arm 3302 and the mask frame 3310 is a hinged connection at or proximal to bend 3352. In other words, the rigidiser arm 3302 is able to pivot relative to the mask frame 3310. The position of the pivot point as far forward as possible in line with the nasal pillows and nares of the patient 1000 to cater for varying nose droop and minimize the moment arm and tube drag caused by the conduit or air circuit 4170. The flexing and rotational movement of the rigidiser arm 3302 relative to the mask frame 3310 in the coronal plane is to accommodate various head widths without excessive force, preferably, less than 1 or 2 Newtons, required to minimise or eliminate pinching of the patient's cheeks between the two rigidiser arms 3302. The distance between the two bends 3352 is about 62 mm. This spacing between the between the two bends 3352 avoids the protruding end 3306 of the rigidiser arms 3302 and extension 3350 or flexible joint 3305 touching the patient's nose proximal to the nose tip and side of the patient's nose. These areas of the patient's face may be particularly sensitive so avoidance of contact in these areas may improve comfort.

As the patient interface 3000 is donned, the rigidiser arms 3302 may be spread outwardly to accommodate various head widths. Pivoting of the rigidiser arm 3302 relative to the mask frame 3310 will occur as well as flexing of the rigidiser arm 3302 along its longitudinal axis.

Additional Features and Examples of the Present Technology

In another example the rigidiser arm 3302 may be relatively more resiliently flexible than the mask frame 3310. The rigidiser arm 3302 may also be formed so as to be flexible only horizontally, i.e., in a plane parallel to the Frankfort horizontal and the transverse plane. Moreover, the rigidiser arm 3302 may not be flexible in a vertical direction, i.e., in a plane perpendicular to the Frankfort horizontal. In other words, the rigidiser arm 3302 is more flexible in a plane parallel to the Frankfort horizontal and the transverse plane and less flexible in any other plane (preferably, not flexible). Furthermore, material of the rigidiser arm 3302 may not be stretchable or extensible. If the rigidiser arm 3302 is stretched at its ends, the curved profile of the rigidiser arm 3302 flattens. These features alone or in combination with shape and dimension may allow the rigidiser arm 3302 to flex and/or frame the face of the patient 1000 without riding or flexing up across or down against the patient's ears. In turn, this enables the elastic fabric strap 3001 to navigate above the patient's ears proximal to the Otobasion superior.

In the example shown in FIGS. 35 to 38, indicia such as a corporate logo may be provided on the outer surface 3319 of the protrusion 3309 to conceal the location of the mechanical interlock. In the example shown in FIGS. 39 to 41, the indicia may be provided on an outer surface 3355 of the extension 3350. The indicia may visually assist the patient in determining the correct orientation of the patient interface 3000 when donning the patient interface 3000, to prevent it from being donned upside down. If the indicia is also a raised/embossed surface, this may provide tactile feedback for the patient 1000 especially if they are donning the patient interface 3000 in a darkened environment.

In a further example, an adhesive accelerator may be used after surface treatment to permanently connect the rigidiser arm 3302 to the mask frame 3310, or to permanently connect the rigidiser arm to the flexible joint 3305. In this example, a mechanical interlock is not necessary.

In another example, the rigidiser arm 3302 is made from a material that can be integrally bonded with the mask frame 3310 made from PP material. The rigidiser arm 3302 may be made from a fiber reinforced composite PP material, for example, Curv® manufactured by Propex Inc. Curv® has a similar level of resilient flexibility as Hytrel®. Curv® is provided in sheet form, and requires laser cutting into the desired shape of the rigidiser arm 3302. To obtain the desired thickness for the rigidiser arm 3302, compression or layering of sheets may be performed to adjust the thickness of the rigidiser arm 3302 in certain areas. Since Curv® is made from the same material as the mask frame 3310, an integral bond is possible when the rigidiser arm 3302 is overmolded to the mask frame 3310.

The patient interface 3000 may include nasal pillows or a nasal cradle as disclosed, for example, in U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/823,192, filed May 14, 2013, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Nasal pillows may be releasably engageable with the mask frame 3310. After the rigidiser arms 3302 are permanently connected to the mask frame 3310, the elastic fabric strap of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 may be slipped over the rigidiser arms 3302 and secured to the rigidiser arms 3302.

Although a T-shaped protrusion 3309 has been described, it is envisaged other shapes and forms are possible, including a mushroom shaped protrusion, to permanently connect the rigidiser arm 3302 (via a flexible joint in one example) mechanically to the mask frame 3310. Although a void 3320 has been described, it is envisaged that the protrusion 3309 may not have a void but rather recesses or slots to retain the flexible joint 3305 or mask frame 3310 to the rigidiser arm 3302.

It is envisaged that it is possible to reverse the described connection arrangement and provide the protrusion extending from the mask frame 3310 or flexible joint 3305 rather than rigidiser arm 3302. In such an example the rigidiser arm 3302 would be overmolded to the flexible joint 3305 or the mask frame 3310.

It is envisaged that the flexible joint 3305 can be permanently connected to the mask frame 3310 without an integral bond. For example, a mechanical interlock may be provided to permanently connect the flexible joint 3305 to the mask frame 3310.

Although the rigidiser arm 3302, flexible joint 3305 and mask frame 3310 have been described as permanently connected to each other, it is envisaged that some or all may releasably detachable from each other using for example, a mechanical clip (snap-fit) assembly.

The Shape of a Rigidiser Arm

FIGS. 61 to 64 show a rigidiser arm 3302 according to an example of the present technology plotted in two and three dimensions.

FIGS. 61 to 63 show three two dimensional views of a rigidiser arm 3302 according to an example of the present technology plotted on a grid. FIG. 61 shows the X-Y plane, FIG. 62 shows the X-Z plane, and FIG. 63 shows the Y-Z plane. The origin is also indicated in these views for orientation purposes. Numbered coordinates are also shown in each of these and these coordinates may define the curve of the rigidiser arm 3302 in these planes. The following chart lists the coordinates of the profile of the rigidiser arm 3302 shown in these views. It should be understood that each coordinate is numbered consistently across each of the four views.

Point # X Y Z 1 26.67 14.25 12.76 2 22.00 26.87 24.92 3 27.30 28.57 26.37 4 37.94 32.84 30.10 5 46.72 37.84 34.57 6 59.77 51.55 45.79 7 65.02 61.69 52.45 8 68.36 73.68 56.36 9 69.09 83.53 55.98 10 69.78 94.70 54.31 11 69.06 102.83 54.02 12 68.69 110.47 55.36 13 72.25 113.84 51.65 14 73.00 110.04 49.69 15 73.70 103.72 48.28 16 73.81 95.03 48.56 17 73.26 86.38 49.37 18 71.54 75.71 48.65 19 67.84 66.29 44.75 20 60.55 55.68 36.66 21 52.68 48.30 29.33 22 43.87 42.88 23.34 23 33.65 38.87 18.62 24 27.58 37.35 16.76 25 21.65 36.15 15.26 26 26.67 22.22 2.56

FIG. 64 shows a further view of the rigidiser arm 3302 depicted in FIGS. 61 to 63 in three dimensions. The X, Y, and Z axes are indicated, as well as the origin, to aid in orientation.

The shape of the curve of the rigidiser arm 3302 is intended to closely follow the patient's cheek. With the elastic fabric strap 1200 covering the rigidiser arm 3302, the relative position of the rigidiser arm 3302 in contact with the patient's cheek during use is such that it does not slip on the patient's face. For example, the rigidiser arm 3302 may sit slightly below the patient's cheekbone which prevents the rigidiser arm 3302 from sliding upwards. Also, contact between most of or all the inner side surface of the rigidiser arm 3302 and the patient's face may increase friction to prevent slippage and ultimately minimise disruption of sealing forces. The shape of the curved profile 3323 of the rigidiser arm 3302 directs the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 between the eyes and ears over the majority of the anthropometric range. This orientation is advantageous because it is aesthetic and unobtrusive from the perspective of the patient 1000 and the patient's bed partner 1100. When viewed from above, the curved profile 3323 of the rigidiser arm 3302 has a larger radius than the rigidiser arm 3302 when viewed from the side.

The Flexibility of a Rigidiser Arm

As described earlier and referring to FIGS. 52 and 55, the rigidiser arm 3302 is more flexible in certain directions at certain locations along the rigidiser arm 3302. Flexural stiffness of the rigidiser arm 3302 is compared. For comparative purposes, the flexibility of the rigidiser arm 3302 is measured against rigidised headgear of some prior masks by ResMed Limited in an outwardly lateral direction in the coronal plane and in the inferior vertical direction in the sagittal plane.

Newtons of force (N) required to displace upper distal tip of rigidiser arm by 5 mm Vertical Laterally Mask name Mask type Down Outwards Present nasal 0.132 0.0143 Technology pillows ResMed Pixi paediatric 1.107 0.0356 nasal ResMed Mirage nasal 1.15 0.0258 Swift LT pillows ResMed Mirage nasal 0.966 0.0647 Swift I pillows ResMed Mirage nasal 4.35 0.0776 Vista

This comparison shows the differences in force (in Newtons) required to displace the upper distal tip of a rigidised headgear component when connected to a mask frame by a distance of 5 mm. Choosing the upper distal tip of a rigidised headgear component as the location to measure is because this location comes into contact with a sensitive facial area and certain types of flexibility provides comfort without compromising seal stability. Measuring the direction of flexibility in an outwardly lateral direction in the coronal plane (laterally outwards) is intended to measure the ability of the rigidiser arm 3302 to accommodate patients with large face widths as shown in FIG. 52 in broken line. The resilient flexibility of the rigidiser arm 3302 allows the patient interface 3000 to more precisely fit a wider range of facial shapes. For example, the same patient interface 3000 could be used on patients with a narrow angular face (the so-called crocodile shape) as those with a wider flatter face (the so-called panda shape). Measuring the direction of flexibility in the inferior vertical direction in the sagittal plane (vertical down) is intended to measure the ability of the rigidiser arm 3302 to handle tube torque exerted by the air circuit 4170 during therapy as shown in FIG. 55 in broken line. Both measurements are taken using an Instron machine with a 50N load cell.

For measuring the vertical down direction, each mask is secured to a plate and sits level with it and has the rigidised headgear component at an angle that would be normally be on a patient's face. This plate is fastened to a large circular base plate used for the Instron machine. The rigidised headgear component is held in a jig to prevent twisting and slipping and this jig is manually lowered such that it makes contact with the upper distal tip of the rigidised headgear component. The Instron machine is zeroed at this height position. Next, compression extension of 5 mm is applied at a rate of 50 mm/minute, and the measurements are recorded.

For measuring the laterally outwards direction, a spacer and a 90 degree elbow are secured to a first plate. Each mask is secured to a second plate and sits level with it and has the rigidised headgear component at an angle that would be normally be on a patient's face. A spring clamp is used to fix the second plate with the 90 degree elbow on the first plate such that the first plate is held perpendicular to the second plate. A large prong is used to locate it to the upper distal tip of the rigidised headgear component. The Instron machine is zeroed at this height position. Next, compression extension of 5 mm is applied at a rate of 50 mm/minute, and the measurements are recorded.

The measurements show that the rigidiser arm 3302 connected to the frame 3310 is more flexible in both directions by a significant factor. For accommodating large face widths, the rigidiser arm 3302 is 1.8 times more flexible than the second most flexible mask in this direction (ResMed Mirage Swift LT). For accommodating tube torque, the rigidiser arm 3302 connected to the frame 3310, the rigidiser arm 3302 is 8.39 times more flexible than the second most flexible mask in this direction (ResMed Pixi). By having a more flexible rigidiser arm 3302 when displaced in these directions provides the patient 1000 with greater comfort, less likelihood of seal disruption caused by tube torque and therefore leads to increased patient compliance with therapy in terms of frequency of use and therapy duration.

Relative flexibility of the rigidiser arm 3302 in different directions is also an important consideration. If flexibility in the vertical down direction is too high (i.e. equal to the laterally out direction), there may be seal instability. In one example, the rigidiser arm 3302 is more flexible in the laterally out direction than the vertical down direction. The rigidiser arm 3302 is 9 to 10 times more flexible in the laterally out direction than the vertical down direction. Preferably, the rigidiser arm 3302 is about 9.23 times more flexible in the laterally out direction than the vertical down direction. Tube torque may also be addressed in conjunction with other mask components such has the short tube 4180 (e.g. making it lighter weight, more slinky or more flexible) or the use of a swivel connector, ball and socket joint or gusset or pleated section. However, varied facial widths are predominantly addressed by the flexibility of the rigidiser arm 3302 and therefore the rigidiser arm 3302 needs to be more flexible in the laterally out direction compared to the vertical down direction.

Some rigidised headgear components of prior masks are more rigid than the frame. Typically, these stiff headgear components use threaded arms and bolts to manually adjust the headgear to fit the patient's head. Although a flexible frame may improve mask comfort, provide a good seal, minimise inadvertent leak and minimise the risk that headgear straps are too tight for low pressure level for therapy, some difficulty would arise if the flexible frame was needed to be releasably detachable with a seal-forming structure. Seal-forming structures are resiliently flexible so that they form a seal against the patient's airways. If both the seal-forming structure and frame are of similar flexibility (i.e. very flexible or floppy), it would be difficult for a patient 1000 to engage these two parts together, especially a patient with arthritic hands in a darkened room.

Some rigidised headgear components of prior masks are detachable from the frame. Typically this is by way of a snap-fit or clip connection between the rigidiser arm and the mask frame, both of which are rigid and stiff components. This type of hard-to-hard connection between the rigidiser arm and frame may result in less flexibility at the point of connection which means more force is required to flex at this point causing discomfort for patients with larger face widths since a pinching force may be experienced when the rigidiser arms are forced to flex outwardly. Some of these rigidiser headgear components have the hard clip at the distal end of the rigidiser arm for releasable connection with the frame. The hard clip is permanently connected to a headgear strap which may damage a washing machine tub or other laundry items when the headgear is washed in a washing machine. Also, some of these rigidised headgear components tend to require a patient interface with a wider frame which means that the headgear straps commence from the frame position at a larger distance apart from other. The wider frame may have integrally formed lateral arms which are considered part of the frame as they are made from the same material. A wider frame may be perceived by patients 1000 and their bed partners 1110 as more obtrusive and aesthetically undesirable because they cover a larger footprint on the face. In contrast, in one example of the present technology, the rigidiser arm 3302 is made from a material that is more flexible than the frame 33310 but less flexible than the strap 1200. In other words, the strap 1200 is the most flexible component of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 as it is made from an elastic fabric. The second most flexible component of the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 is the rigidiser arm 3302 which is made from Hytrel® in one example. The most rigid or stiff component is the frame 3310 which not intended to flex, stretch or bend easily or at all because it is the seal-forming structure 3100 that is meant to form a seal with the patient's airways by resilient deformation. The differences in flexibility of individual components can control the amount of flexing at certain locations and also determine the order that certain components start to flex when a certain force is applied i.e. tube torque or accommodating a larger face width. The differences in flexibility of individual components may also decouple forces before they can begin to disrupt the seal of the seal-forming structure 3100 in a specific manner or sequence. These factors aim to address the requirements of comfort, stability and provision of a good seal at the same time for a patient interface 3000. Another advantage of the rigidiser arm 3302 is that the same sized rigidiser arm 3302 may be used for patient interfaces 3000 with different sized seal-forming structures 3100 or different sized headgear straps 3301. When a rigidiser arm 3302 is flexed inwardly, it is likely to make contact with the sides of patient's nose first before the making contact with the nasal pillows 3130 and dislodging the seal. Then inward range of movement of the rigidiser arms 3302 is limited by the patient's nose and therefore disruption of the sealing force by movement in such a direction is minimised or eliminated.

Vent 3400

In one form, the patient interface 3000 may include a vent 3400 constructed and arranged to allow for the washout of exhaled air (including exhaled carbon dioxide).

One form of vent 3400 in accordance with the present technology comprises a plurality of very small holes, in other words, a multi-hole vent. Two or more multi-hole vents may be provided on the frame 3310. They may be located on both sides of the connection port 3600 for an air circuit 4170. These holes may be the interspaces between the fibers of a textile material. Alternatively, these holes may be microholes (1 micron or less) defined in a substrate of a semi-permeable material using a laser drill operating in the ultraviolet spectral range. Laser drilled microholes may be straight-walled or tapered/trumpet shaped. Another way to create microholes is by using a chemical etchant after masking off areas of the substrate. There may be about 20 to about 80 holes or about 32 to about 42 holes or about 36 to about 38 holes. In one example, if this form of vent 3400 is insert molded, the direction of the holes through the thickness of the vent 3400 may be modified to be skewed rather than perpendicular. This may avoid exhaled air (including exhaled carbon dioxide) blowing directly into the face of a bed partner 1100 if the patient 1000 is facing him or her. In one example, the final number of holes may be determined by blanking off some holes from an original larger number of holes. For example, there may 40 holes and 2 holes are occluded (by filling) so that the final number of holes is 38 holes. The ability to selectively occlude holes both in terms of the quantity and the position of the holes to be occluded provide increased control over the air flow rate and the air diffusion pattern.

Location of Vent 3400

In one form of the present technology, vent 3400 is located on, or formed as part of frame 3310. Specifically, in the example of the technology depicted in FIGS. 75 and 76 a pair of vents 3400 may be disposed on either side of an anterior surface of the frame 3310. In one example, the anterior surface of the mask frame 3310 is curved and therefore the vents 3400 are not facing a direction that is perpendicular to the sagittal plane but are rather facing off the perpendicular axis between the sagittal plane and the coronal plane. Positioning the vents 3400 in this manner in the mask frame 3310 directs the flow of air from the vents 3400 towards the lateral sides rather than straight centre which avoids a direct stream of air to a bed partner 1100 if the patient 1000 is directly facing him or her. An area in front of the centre of the patient interface 3000 has a lower average air velocity from the vents 3400 compared to an area along the vent axis i.e. the area along the direction perpendicular to the superficial anterior surface of the vent 3400.

Although the vent 3400 has been described as being permanently connected to the frame 3310, it is envisaged that the vent 3400 may be located somewhere else in the pneumatic region of the patient interface 3000, for example, on or proximal to the seal-forming structure 3100 or on a cuff/adaptor 4190 (see FIGS. 1b and 1c ), which would allow the washout of exhaled air (including exhaled carbon dioxide). The vent 3400 may be permanently connected to the other pneumatic components in the pneumatic region of the patient interface 3000, for example, on an elbow if the patient interface 3000 has an elbow to decouple tube torque.

Forehead Support

In one form of the present technology, patient interface 3000 does not include a forehead support. In one form, the patient interface 3000 provides sufficient stability that a forehead support is not required which leads to less obtrusiveness and opens up the eyes and nasal bone.

In one alternative form, the patient interface 3000 includes a forehead support.

Anti-Asphyxia

In one form of the present technology, patient interface 3000 may include an anti-asphyxia valve (AAV). In further examples of the present technology, when a full-face mask is used an AAV may be included with the decoupling structure 4190 (see FIG. 1b ), the air circuit 4170 (see FIGS. 1a to c ), or the patient interface 3000.

Ports

In one form of the present technology, patient interface 3000 may include one or more supplemental oxygen ports 4185 that allow access to the volume within the plenum chamber 3200. In one form this allows a clinician to supply supplemental oxygen. In one form this allows for the direct measurement of a property gases within the plenum chamber 3200, such as the pressure.

Decoupling Structure(s) 4190

In one form, the patient interface 3000 includes at least one decoupling structure, for example, a rotatable cuff or adapter 4190, as shown in FIGS. 1b and 1c , or a ball and socket. Referring to FIGS. 1b and c , decoupling of a tube-drag force is provided at least in part by short tube 4180. In this way, short tube 4180 functions at least in part as a decoupling structure 4190.

Referring to FIGS. 1b and 1c , at an end of the short tube 4180 is the rotatable cuff or adapter 4190 to facilitate connection to a third end of an additional gas delivery tube 4178 that may be different in at least one aspect from the short tube 4180. The rotatable cuff 4190 allows the short tube 4180 and the additional gas delivery tube 4178 to rotate relative to one another at respective ends. The additional gas delivery tube 4178 may incorporate similar features to the short tube 4180, but may have a larger inner diameter (e.g., 18 mm-22 mm). This additional degree of freedom provided to the tubes may help to reduce tube drag forces by alleviating twisting, and therefore kinking, of the air circuit 4170. Another end of the additional gas delivery tube 4178 may be connected to a PAP device 4000.

Mask System

One or more of the mask components may configured and arranged together to decouple tube torque to minimise the likelihood of seal disruption. The short tube 4180 is able to decouple tube torque because of its enhanced floppiness and ability to stretch. If tube torque is greater than what the short tube 4180 can decouple, the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 also decouples tube torque. The rigidiser arms 3302 flex in the sagittal plane to decouple tube torque. Also, the cushioning function of the plenum chamber 3200 and/or seal-forming structure 3100 will decouple some amount of tube torque. Any combination of two or more of these features improves the ability to decouple tube torque. The combination of all of these features further enhances the ability to decouple a larger amount of tube torque.

One or more of the mask components may be configured and arranged together to improve comfort for the patient 1000. The short tube 4180 is light weight and the plenum chamber 3200 and seal-forming structure 3100 are also light weight therefore the headgear tension provided by the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 is not required to be uncomfortably high in order to provide a good seal. Reducing the need for an elbow to connect the short tube 4180 to the frame 3310 also reduces overall weight of the patient interface 3000 which lowers the level of headgear tension required by the positioning and stabilising structure 3300. Also, the perception by the patient 1000 when a patient interface 3000 is light weight is that it is “barely there” such that it does not feel like you are wearing a patient interface 3000 leading to less anxiety and claustrophobia. The shape and flexibility of the rigidiser arms 3302 provide comfort for the patient 1000 because they sit under the cheek bones and also direct the headgear strap 3301 around the patient's ears which may be sensitive facial regions for some patients 1000. The strap 3301 is made from a fabric textile and feels good against the patient's skin because it does not retain surface heat and condensate from perspiration compared to a plastic headgear strap. Also, the strap 3301 being made from a fabric textile is less dense than a plastic material which leads to weight and bulk reduction. The split region 3326 of the strap 3301 enables the patient 1000 to adjust headgear tension to a level they feel is comfortable for them. Any combination of two or more of these features improves comfort for the patient 1000. The combination of all of these features greatly enhances comfort for the patient 1000.

One or more of the mask components may be configured and arranged together to improve the chances of an optimal seal with the patient 1000. This may lead to better therapy compliance and an increase in average daily usage by an additional 36 minutes. An optimal seal may be obtained through a combination of improved decoupling of tube torque and also enhanced comfort for the patient 1000 as described above.

One or more of the mask components may be configured and arranged together to improve the visual appeal of the patient interface 3000 leading to better therapy compliance, especially for first time patients 1000. The patient interface 3000 has a low profile and small footprint on the patient's face because the frame 3310 is not very wide and is also curved to correspond to facial geometry. Also, the unitary strap 3301 with the split region 3326 and the smooth continuous surface of the curved profile of rigidiser arm 3323 is not obtrusive, does not appear bulky or complex and does not cover a large surface area of the patient's face. Any combination of two or more of these features improves the visual appeal of the patient interface 3000. The combination of all of these features greatly enhances the visual appeal of the patient interface 3000.

One or more of the mask components may be configured and arranged together to improve assembly and disassembly of the patient interface 3000. The patient interface 3000 provides simplicity to the patient 1000 as there are two detachable components from the frame 3310, which are the seal-forming structure 3100 and strap 3301. Less detachable components also means that the patient interface 3000 is easy to assembly and disassemble when the patient interface 3000 needs to be cleaned. The frame 3310, plenum chamber 3200/seal-forming structure 3100 and strap 3301 may be washed individually and on different schedules, for example, the plenum chamber 3200/seal-forming structure 3100 may be washed more frequently than the strap 3301. The shape and structure of the components visually and tactilely suggest to the patient 1000 how to assemble and disassemble the patient interface 3000 in an intuitive manner. For example, the mating relationship between the plenum chamber 3200 and the frame 3310 which generates an audible click sound when engagement is correct is intuitive to a patient 1000. Also, providing visual and tactile indicators on the frame 3310, plenum chamber 3200 and the positioning and stabilising structure 3300 adds a further guide for the patient 1000 to avoid incorrect assembly/disassembly or misorientation/misalignment of mask components. Some of these features are especially advantageous for patients 1000 in a darkened environment who may have arthritic hands. For example, the audible click sound may be heard, or the touch and feel of the shapes of the mask components and tactile indicators are also useful in low lighting conditions. Also, by simply stretching the strap 3301 to don or doff the patient interface 300 from the patient's face avoids complicated engagement/disengagement procedures. Any combination of two or more of these features improves the simplicity of the patient interface 3000. The combination of all of these features greatly enhances the simplicity of the patient interface 3000.

In one example of the present technology, a frame assembly includes the sub-assemblies of the frame 3310, short tube 4180, vent 3400 and rigidiser arms 3302. The sub-assemblies of the frame assembly are permanently connected to each other, for example, the frame 3310 and short tube 4180 are permanently connected to each other, the frame 3310 and rigidiser arms 3302 are permanently connected to each other, and the frame 3310 and the vent 3400 are permanently connected to each other. A cushion assembly is removably engageable with the frame assembly. The cushion assembly includes the seal-forming structure 3100, plenum chamber 3200, retaining structure 3242, and plenum connection region 3240. The strap 3301 is removably engageable with the frame assembly, in particular, with the rigidiser arms 3302.

Although a strap 3301 made from fabric has been described, it is envisaged that the strap may be made from silicone or a plastic material at least at a distal end. A silicone strap enables overmolding to the plenum chamber 3200 for a permanent connection.

PAP Device 4000

A PAP device 4000 in accordance with one aspect of the present technology comprises mechanical and pneumatic components 4100, electrical components 4200 and is programmed to execute one or more algorithms 4300. The PAP device may have an external housing 4010, formed in two parts, an upper portion 4012 of the external housing 4010, and a lower portion 4014 of the external housing 4010. In alternative forms, the external housing 4010 may include one or more panel(s) 4015. The PAP device 4000 may comprise a chassis 4016 that supports one or more internal components of the PAP device 4000. In one form a pneumatic block 4020 is supported by, or formed as part of the chassis 4016. The PAP device 4000 may include a handle 4018.

The pneumatic path of the PAP device 4000 may comprise an inlet air filter 4112, an inlet muffler, a controllable pressure device capable of supplying air at positive pressure (e.g., a controllable blower 4142), and an outlet muffler. One or more pressure sensors and flow sensors may be included in the pneumatic path.

The pneumatic block 4020 may comprise a portion of the pneumatic path that is located within the external housing 4010.

The PAP device 4000 may have an electrical power supply 4210 and one or more input devices 4220. Electrical components 4200 may be mounted on a single Printed Circuit Board Assembly (PCBA) 4202. In an alternative form, the PAP device 4000 may include more than one PCBA 4202.

PAP Device Mechanical & Pneumatic Components 4100 Air Filter(s) 4110

A PAP device 4000 in accordance with one form of the present technology may include an air filter 4110, or a plurality of air filters 4110.

In one form, an inlet air filter 4112 is located at the beginning of the pneumatic path upstream of a controllable blower 4142. See FIG. 3 c.

In one form, an outlet air filter 4114, for example an antibacterial filter, is located between an outlet of the pneumatic block 4020 and a patient interface 3000. See FIG. 3 c.

Pressure Device 4140

In a form of the present technology, a pressure device for producing a flow of air at positive pressure is a controllable blower 4142. For example the blower 4142 may include a brushless DC motor with one or more impellers housed in a volute. The blower 4142 may be capable of delivering a supply of air, for example about 120 litres/minute, at a positive pressure in a range from about 4 cmH2O to about 20 cmH2O, or in other forms up to about 30 cmH2O.

Humidifier 5000 Humidifier Overview

In one form of the present technology there is provided a humidifier 5000, as shown in FIG. 3b , that may comprise a water reservoir and a heating plate.

Glossary

For the purposes of the present technology disclosure, in certain forms of the present technology, one or more of the following definitions may apply. In other forms of the present technology, alternative definitions may apply.

General

Air: In certain forms of the present technology, air supplied to a patient may be atmospheric air, and in other forms of the present technology atmospheric air may be supplemented with oxygen.

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP): CPAP treatment will be taken to mean the application of a supply of air or breathable gas to the entrance to the airways at a pressure that is continuously positive with respect to atmosphere, and preferably approximately constant through a respiratory cycle of a patient. In some forms, the pressure at the entrance to the airways will vary by a few centimeters of water within a single respiratory cycle, for example being higher during inhalation and lower during exhalation. In some forms, the pressure at the entrance to the airways will be slightly higher during exhalation, and slightly lower during inhalation. In some forms, the pressure will vary between different respiratory cycles of the patient, for example being increased in response to detection of indications of partial upper airway obstruction, and decreased in the absence of indications of partial upper airway obstruction.

Aspects of PAP Devices

Air circuit: A conduit or tube constructed and arranged in use to deliver a supply of air or breathable gas between a PAP device and a patient interface. In particular, the air circuit may be in fluid connection with the outlet of the pneumatic block and the patient interface. The air circuit may be referred to as air delivery tube. In some cases there may be separate limbs of the circuit for inhalation and exhalation. In other cases a single limb is used.

APAP: Automatic Positive Airway Pressure. Positive airway pressure that is continually adjustable between minimum and maximum limits, depending on the presence or absence of indications of SDB events.

Blower or flow generator: A device that delivers a flow of air at a pressure above ambient pressure.

Controller: A device, or portion of a device that adjusts an output based on an input. For example one form of controller has a variable that is under control—the control variable—that constitutes the input to the device. The output of the device is a function of the current value of the control variable, and a set point for the variable. A servo-ventilator may include a controller that has ventilation as an input, a target ventilation as the set point, and level of pressure support as an output. Other forms of input may be one or more of oxygen saturation (SaO2), partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PCO2), movement, a signal from a photoplethysmogram, and peak flow. The set point of the controller may be one or more of fixed, variable or learned. For example, the set point in a ventilator may be a long term average of the measured ventilation of a patient. Another ventilator may have a ventilation set point that changes with time. A pressure controller may be configured to control a blower or pump to deliver air at a particular pressure.

Therapy: Therapy in the present context may be one or more of positive pressure therapy, oxygen therapy, carbon dioxide therapy, control of dead space, and the administration of a drug.

Motor: A device for converting electrical energy into rotary movement of a member. In the present context the rotating member is an impeller, which rotates in place around a fixed axis so as to impart a pressure increase to air moving along the axis of rotation.

Positive Airway Pressure (PAP) device: A device for providing a supply of air at positive pressure to the airways.

Transducers: A device for converting one form of energy or signal into another. A transducer may be a sensor or detector for converting mechanical energy (such as movement) into an electrical signal. Examples of transducers include pressure sensors, flow sensors, carbon dioxide (CO2) sensors, oxygen (O2) sensors, effort sensors, movement sensors, noise sensors, a plethysmograph, and cameras.

Aspects of the Respiratory Cycle

Apnea: Preferably, apnea will be said to have occurred when flow falls below a predetermined threshold for a duration, e.g. 10 seconds. An obstructive apnea will be said to have occurred when, despite patient effort, some obstruction of the airway does not allow air to flow. A central apnea will be said to have occurred when an apnea is detected that is due to a reduction in breathing effort, or the absence of breathing effort.

Duty cycle: The ratio of inhalation time, Ti to total breath time, Ttot.

Effort (breathing): Preferably breathing effort will be said to be the work done by a spontaneously breathing person attempting to breathe.

Expiratory portion of a breathing cycle: The period from the start of expiratory flow to the start of inspiratory flow.

Flow limitation: Preferably, flow limitation will be taken to be the state of affairs in a patient's respiration where an increase in effort by the patient does not give rise to a corresponding increase in flow. Where flow limitation occurs during an inspiratory portion of the breathing cycle it may be described as inspiratory flow limitation. Where flow limitation occurs during an expiratory portion of the breathing cycle it may be described as expiratory flow limitation.

Hypopnea: Preferably, a hypopnea will be taken to be a reduction in flow, but not a cessation of flow. In one form, a hypopnea may be said to have occurred when there is a reduction in flow below a threshold for a duration. In one form in adults, the following either of the following may be regarded as being hypopneas:

(i) a 30% reduction in patient breathing for at least 10 seconds plus an associated 4% desaturation; or

(ii) a reduction in patient breathing (but less than 50%) for at least 10 seconds, with an associated desaturation of at least 3% or an arousal.

Inspiratory portion of a breathing cycle: Preferably the period from the start of inspiratory flow to the start of expiratory flow will be taken to be the inspiratory portion of a breathing cycle.

Patency (airway): The degree of the airway being open, or the extent to which the airway is open. A patent airway is open. Airway patency may be quantified, for example with a value of one (1) being patent, and a value of zero (0), being closed.

Positive End-Expiratory Pressure (PEEP): The pressure above atmosphere in the lungs that exists at the end of expiration.

Peak flow (Qpeak): The maximum value of flow during the inspiratory portion of the respiratory flow waveform.

Respiratory flow, airflow, patient airflow, respiratory airflow (Qr): These synonymous terms may be understood to refer to the PAP device's estimate of respiratory airflow, as opposed to “true respiratory flow” or “true respiratory airflow”, which is the actual respiratory flow experienced by the patient, usually expressed in litres per minute.

Tidal volume (Vt): The volume of air inhaled or exhaled during normal breathing, when extra effort is not applied.

(inhalation) Time (Ti): The duration of the inspiratory portion of the respiratory flow waveform.

(exhalation) Time (Te): The duration of the expiratory portion of the respiratory flow waveform.

(total) Time (Ttot): The total duration between the start of the inspiratory portion of one respiratory flow waveform and the start of the inspiratory portion of the following respiratory flow waveform.

Typical recent ventilation: The value of ventilation around which recent values over some predetermined timescale tend to cluster, that is, a measure of the central tendency of the recent values of ventilation.

Upper airway obstruction (UAO): includes both partial and total upper airway obstruction. This may be associated with a state of flow limitation, in which the level of flow increases only slightly or may even decrease as the pressure difference across the upper airway increases (Starling resistor behaviour).

Ventilation (Vent): A measure of the total amount of gas being exchanged by the patient's respiratory system, including both inspiratory and expiratory flow, per unit time. When expressed as a volume per minute, this quantity is often referred to as “minute ventilation”. Minute ventilation is sometimes given simply as a volume, understood to be the volume per minute.

PAP Device Parameters

Flow rate: The instantaneous volume (or mass) of air delivered per unit time. While flow rate and ventilation have the same dimensions of volume or mass per unit time, flow rate is measured over a much shorter period of time. Flow may be nominally positive for the inspiratory portion of a breathing cycle of a patient, and hence negative for the expiratory portion of the breathing cycle of a patient. In some cases, a reference to flow rate will be a reference to a scalar quantity, namely a quantity having magnitude only. In other cases, a reference to flow rate will be a reference to a vector quantity, namely a quantity having both magnitude and direction. Flow will be given the symbol Q. Total flow, Qt, is the flow of air leaving the PAP device. Vent flow, Qv, is the flow of air leaving a vent to allow washout of exhaled gases. Leak flow, Ql, is the flow rate of unintentional leak from a patient interface system. Respiratory flow, Qr, is the flow of air that is received into the patient's respiratory system.

Leak: Preferably, the word leak will be taken to be a flow of air to the ambient. Leak may be intentional, for example to allow for the washout of exhaled CO₂. Leak may be unintentional, for example, as the result of an incomplete seal between a mask and a patient's face.

Pressure: Force per unit area. Pressure may be measured in a range of units, including cmH₂O, g-f/cm², hectopascal. 1 cmH₂O is equal to 1 g-f/cm² and is approximately 0.98 hectopascal. In this specification, unless otherwise stated, pressure is given in units of cmH₂O. For nasal CPAP treatment of OSA, a reference to treatment pressure is a reference to a pressure in the range of about 4-20 cmH₂O, or about 4-30 cmH₂O. The pressure in the patient interface is given the symbol Pm.

SoundPower: The energy per unit time carried by a sound wave. The sound power is proportional to the square of sound pressure multiplied by the area of the wavefront. Sound power is usually given in decibels SWL, that is, decibels relative to a reference power, normally taken as 10⁻¹² watt.

Sound Pressure: The local deviation from ambient pressure at a given time instant as a result of a sound wave travelling through a medium. Sound power is usually given in decibels SPL, that is, decibels relative to a reference power, normally taken as 20×10⁻⁶ pascal (Pa), considered the threshold of human hearing.

Anatomy of the Face

Ala: the external outer wall or “wing” of each nostril (plural: alar)

Alare: The most lateral point on the nasal ala.

Alar curvature (or alar crest) point: The most posterior point in the curved base line of each ala, found in the crease formed by the union of the ala with the cheek.

Auricula or Pinna: The whole external visible part of the ear.

(nose) Bony framework: The bony framework of the nose comprises the nasal bones, the frontal process of the maxillae and the nasal part of the frontal bone.

(nose) Cartilaginous framework: The cartilaginous framework of the nose comprises the septal, lateral, major and minor cartilages.

Columella: the strip of skin that separates the nares and which runs from the pronasale to the upper lip.

Columella angle: The angle between the line drawn through the midpoint of the nostril aperture and a line drawn perpendicular to the Frankfurt horizontal while intersecting subnasale.

Frankfort horizontal plane: A line extending from the most inferior point of the orbital margin to the left tragion. The tragion is the deepest point in the notch superior to the tragus of the auricle.

Glabella: Located on the soft tissue, the most prominent point in the midsagittal plane of the forehead.

Lateral nasal cartilage: A generally triangular plate of cartilage. Its superior margin is attached to the nasal bone and frontal process of the maxilla, and its inferior margin is connected to the greater alar cartilage.

Greater alar cartilage: A plate of cartilage lying below the lateral nasal cartilage. It is curved around the anterior part of the naris. Its posterior end is connected to the frontal process of the maxilla by a tough fibrous membrane containing three or four minor cartilages of the ala.

Nares (Nostrils): Approximately ellipsoidal apertures forming the entrance to the nasal cavity. The singular form of nares is naris (nostril). The nares are separated by the nasal septum.

Naso-labial sulcus or Naso-labial fold: The skin fold or groove that runs from each side of the nose to the corners of the mouth, separating the cheeks from the upper lip.

Naso-labial angle: The angle between the columella and the upper lip, while intersecting subnasale.

Otobasion inferior: The lowest point of attachment of the auricle to the skin of the face.

Otobasion superior: The highest point of attachment of the auricle to the skin of the face.

Pronasale: the most protruded point or tip of the nose, which can be identified in lateral view of the rest of the portion of the head.

Philtrum: the midline groove that runs from lower border of the nasal septum to the top of the lip in the upper lip region.

Pogonion: Located on the soft tissue, the most anterior midpoint of the chin.

Ridge (nasal): The nasal ridge is the midline prominence of the nose, extending from the Sellion to the Pronasale.

Sagittal plane: A vertical plane that passes from anterior (front) to posterior (rear) dividing the body into right and left halves.

Sellion: Located on the soft tissue, the most concave point overlying the area of the frontonasal suture.

Septal cartilage (nasal): The nasal septal cartilage forms part of the septum and divides the front part of the nasal cavity.

Subalare: The point at the lower margin of the alar base, where the alar base joins with the skin of the superior (upper) lip.

Subnasal point: Located on the soft tissue, the point at which the columella merges with the upper lip in the midsagittal plane.

Supramentale: The point of greatest concavity in the midline of the lower lip between labrale inferius and soft tissue pogonion

Anatomy of the Skull

Frontal bone: The frontal bone includes a large vertical portion, the squama frontalis, corresponding to the region known as the forehead.

Mandible: The mandible forms the lower jaw. The mental protuberance is the bony protuberance of the jaw that forms the chin.

Maxilla: The maxilla forms the upper jaw and is located above the mandible and below the orbits. The frontal process of the maxilla projects upwards by the side of the nose, and forms part of its lateral boundary.

Nasal bones: The nasal bones are two small oblong bones, varying in size and form in different individuals; they are placed side by side at the middle and upper part of the face, and form, by their junction, the “bridge” of the nose.

Nasion: The intersection of the frontal bone and the two nasal bones, a depressed area directly between the eyes and superior to the bridge of the nose.

Occipital bone: The occipital bone is situated at the back and lower part of the cranium. It includes an oval aperture, the foramen magnum, through which the cranial cavity communicates with the vertebral canal. The curved plate behind the foramen magnum is the squama occipitalis.

Orbit: The bony cavity in the skull to contain the eyeball.

Parietal bones: The parietal bones are the bones that, when joined together, form the roof and sides of the cranium.

Temporal bones: The temporal bones are situated on the bases and sides of the skull, and support that part of the face known as the temple.

Zygomatic bones: The face includes two zygomatic bones, located in the upper and lateral parts of the face and forming the prominence of the cheek.

Anatomy of the Respiratory System

Diaphragm: A sheet of muscle that extends across the bottom of the rib cage. The diaphragm separates the thoracic cavity, containing the heart, lungs and ribs, from the abdominal cavity. As the diaphragm contracts the volume of the thoracic cavity increases and air is drawn into the lungs.

Larynx: The larynx, or voice box houses the vocal folds and connects the inferior part of the pharynx (hypopharynx) with the trachea.

Lungs: The organs of respiration in humans. The conducting zone of the lungs contains the trachea, the bronchi, the bronchioles, and the terminal bronchioles. The respiratory zone contains the respiratory bronchioles, the alveolar ducts, and the alveoli.

Nasal cavity: The nasal cavity (or nasal fossa) is a large air filled space above and behind the nose in the middle of the face. The nasal cavity is divided in two by a vertical fin called the nasal septum. On the sides of the nasal cavity are three horizontal outgrowths called nasal conchae (singular “concha”) or turbinates. To the front of the nasal cavity is the nose, while the back blends, via the choanae, into the nasopharynx.

Pharynx: The part of the throat situated immediately inferior to (below) the nasal cavity, and superior to the oesophagus and larynx. The pharynx is conventionally divided into three sections: the nasopharynx (epipharynx) (the nasal part of the pharynx), the oropharynx (mesopharynx) (the oral part of the pharynx), and the laryngopharynx (hypopharynx).

Materials

Silicone or Silicone Elastomer: A synthetic rubber. In this specification, a reference to silicone is a reference to liquid silicone rubber (LSR) or a compression moulded silicone rubber (CMSR). One form of commercially available LSR is SILASTIC (included in the range of products sold under this trademark), manufactured by Dow Corning. Another manufacturer of LSR is Wacker. Unless otherwise specified to the contrary, a preferred form of LSR has a Shore A (or Type A) indentation hardness in the range of about 35 to about 45 as measured using ASTM D2240

Polycarbonate: a typically transparent thermoplastic polymer of Bisphenol-A Carbonate.

Aspects of a Patient Interface

Anti-asphyxia valve (AAV): The component or sub-assembly of a mask system that, by opening to atmosphere in a failsafe manner, reduces the risk of excessive CO₂ rebreathing by a patient.

Elbow: A conduit that directs an axis of flow of air to change direction through an angle. In one form, the angle may be approximately 90 degrees. In another form, the angle may be less than 90 degrees. The conduit may have an approximately circular cross-section. In another form the conduit may have an oval or rectangular cross-section.

Frame: Frame will be taken to mean a mask structure that bears the load of tension between two or more points of connection with a positioning and stabilising structure. A mask frame may be a non-airtight load bearing structure in the mask. However, some forms of mask frame may also be air-tight.

Positioning and stabilising structure: Positioning and stabilising structure will be taken to mean a form of positioning and stabilizing structure designed for use on a head. Preferably the positioning and stabilising structure comprises a collection of one or more struts, ties and stiffeners configured to locate and retain a patient interface in position on a patient's face for delivery of respiratory therapy. Some ties are formed of a soft, flexible, elastic material such as a laminated composite of foam and fabric.

Membrane: Membrane will be taken to mean a typically thin element that has, preferably, substantially no resistance to bending, but has resistance to being stretched.

Plenum chamber: a mask plenum chamber will be taken to a mean portion of a patient interface having walls enclosing a volume of space, the volume having air therein pressurised above atmospheric pressure in use. A shell may form part of the walls of a mask plenum chamber. In one form, a region of the patient's face forms one of the walls of the plenum chamber.

Seal: The noun form (“a seal”) will be taken to mean a structure or barrier that intentionally resists the flow of air through the interface of two surfaces. The verb form (“to seal”) will be taken to mean to resist a flow of air.

Shell: A shell will preferably be taken to mean a curved structure having bending, tensile and compressive stiffness, for example, a portion of a mask that forms a curved structural wall of the mask. Preferably, compared to its overall dimensions it is relatively thin. In some forms, a shell may be faceted. Preferably such walls are airtight, although in some forms they may not be airtight.

Stiffener: A stiffener will be taken to mean a structural component designed to increase the bending resistance of another component in at least one direction.

Strut: A strut will be taken to be a structural component designed to increase the compression resistance of another component in at least one direction.

Swivel: (noun) A subassembly of components configured to rotate about a common axis, preferably independently, preferably under low torque. In one form, the swivel may be constructed to rotate through an angle of at least 360 degrees. In another form, the swivel may be constructed to rotate through an angle less than 360 degrees. When used in the context of an air delivery conduit, the sub-assembly of components preferably comprises a matched pair of cylindrical conduits. Preferably there is little or no leak flow of air from the swivel in use.

Tie: A tie will be taken to be a structural component designed to resist tension.

Vent: (noun) the structure that allows a deliberate controlled rate leak of air from an interior of the mask, or conduit to ambient air, to allow washout of exhaled carbon dioxide (CO₂) and supply of oxygen (O2).

Terms Used in Relation to Patient Interface

Curvature (of a surface): A region of a surface having a saddle shape, which curves up in one direction and curves down in a different direction, will be said to have a negative curvature. A region of a surface having a dome shape, which curves the same way in two principle directions, will be said to have a positive curvature. A flat surface will be taken to have zero curvature.

Floppy: A quality of a material, structure or composite that is the combination of features of:

Readily conforming to finger pressure.

Unable to retain its shape when caused to support its own weight.

Not rigid.

Able to be stretched or bent elastically with little effort.

The quality of being floppy may have an associated direction, hence a particular material, structure or composite may be floppy in a first direction, but stiff or rigid in a second direction, for example a second direction that is orthogonal to the first direction.

Resilient: Able to deform substantially elastically, and to release substantially all of the energy upon unloading, within a relatively short period of time such as 1 second.

Rigid: Not readily deforming to finger pressure, and/or the tensions or loads typically encountered when setting up and maintaining a patient interface in sealing relationship with an entrance to a patient's airways.

Semi-rigid: means being sufficiently rigid to not substantially distort under the effects of mechanical forces typically applied during positive airway pressure therapy.

OTHER REMARKS

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material which is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.

Unless the context clearly dictates otherwise and where a range of values is provided, it is understood that each intervening value, to the tenth of the unit of the lower limit, between the upper and lower limit of that range, and any other stated or intervening value in that stated range is encompassed within the technology. The upper and lower limits of these intervening ranges, which may be independently included in the intervening ranges, are also encompassed within the technology, subject to any specifically excluded limit in the stated range. Where the stated range includes one or both of the limits, ranges excluding either or both of those included limits are also included in the technology. Furthermore, where a value or values are stated herein as being implemented as part of the technology, it is understood that such values may be approximated, unless otherwise stated, and such values may be utilized to any suitable significant digit to the extent that a practical technical implementation may permit or require it. It should be further understood that any and all stated values may be variable by up 10-20% from the value stated.

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this technology belongs. Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can also be used in the practice or testing of the present technology, a limited number of the exemplary methods and materials are described herein.

When a particular material is identified as being preferably used to construct a component, obvious alternative materials with similar properties may be used as a substitute. Furthermore, unless specified to the contrary, any and all components herein described are understood to be capable of being manufactured and, as such, may be manufactured together or separately.

It must be noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include their plural equivalents, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

All publications mentioned herein are incorporated by reference to disclose and describe the methods and/or materials which are the subject of those publications. The publications discussed herein are provided solely for their disclosure prior to the filing date of the present application. Nothing herein is to be construed as an admission that the present technology is not entitled to antedate such publication by virtue of prior invention. Further, the dates of publication provided may be different from the actual publication dates, which may need to be independently confirmed.

Moreover, in interpreting the disclosure, all terms should be interpreted in the broadest reasonable manner consistent with the context. In particular, the terms “comprises” and “comprising” should be interpreted as referring to elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the referenced elements, components, or steps may be present, or utilized, or combined with other elements, components, or steps that are not expressly referenced.

The subject headings used in the detailed description are included only for the ease of reference of the reader and should not be used to limit the subject matter found throughout the disclosure or the claims. The subject headings should not be used in construing the scope of the claims or the claim limitations.

Although the technology herein has been described with reference to particular examples, it is to be understood that these examples are merely illustrative of the principles and applications of the technology. In some instances, the terminology and symbols may imply specific details that are not required to practice the technology. For example, although the terms “first” and “second” may be used, unless otherwise specified, they are not intended to indicate any order but may be utilised to distinguish between distinct elements. Furthermore, although process steps in the methodologies may be described or illustrated in an order, such an ordering is not required. Those skilled in the art will recognize that such ordering may be modified and/or aspects thereof may be conducted concurrently or even synchronously.

It is therefore to be understood that numerous modifications may be made to the illustrative examples and that other arrangements may be devised without departing from the spirit and scope of the technology.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST

weft knit fabric  64 textile  65 airflow meter  66 cutting tool  67 staking punch  68 laser cutter  69 mold  70 molding machine  71 vent portion  72 vent portion  73 acute corner of vent portion  74 acute corner of vent portion  75 longer side of vent portion  76 obtuse corner of vent portion  77 peripheral edge region of vent  78 portion central region of vent portion  79 vertically oriented fibers  80 loose ends  81 horizontally oriented fibers  82 voids  83 notional left side vent portion  84 course  85 basic closed loop warp knit  90 weft knit  100 rear portion  210 straps  220 patient 1000 bed partner 1100 top portion of knitted strap 1102 rear portion of knitted strap 1104 knitted strap 1105 lower portion of knitted strap 1106 connector 1120 course 1150 strap 1200 course 1250 conduit 1510 plastic portion 1520 lumen 1522 female thread 1524 second plastic portion 1530 lumen 1532 female thread 1534 connected links 2802 flexible 3D printed textile 2804 positioning and stabilising structure 2900 piece textile 2904 hole   2912(1) female clips 2912 female clips 2914 hole   2914(1) holes of rigidiser arm 2922 3D printed strap 2924 patient interface 3000 seal-forming structure 3100 nasal flange 3101 sealing flange 3110 support flange 3120 nasal pillows 3130 most posterior portion   3130.1 frusto-cone 3140 upper flexible region 3142 stalk 3150 flexible region 3152 plenum chamber 3200 connection portion 3202 anterior wall 3210 tongue portion 3211 channel portion   3211.1 posterior wall 3220 posterior surface 3222 flexing region 3230 left flexing region 3232 right flexing region 3234 decoupling region 3236 plenum connection region 3240 retaining structure 3242 wide retention feature 3244 narrow retention feature 3245 barb 3246 leading surface   3246.1 trailing surface   3246.2 additional surface   3246.3 nominal vertical axis   3246.4 sealing lip 3250 pad printing 3290 embossed text 3291 recessed text 3292 pad printing 3293 ribs 3294 notches 3295 positioning and stabilising structure 3300 strap 3301 rigidiser arm 3302 distal free end   3302.1 button-hole 3303 flexible joint 3305 protruding end 3306 sharp bend 3307 opening 3308 protrusion 3309 frame 3310 pocketed end 3311 welded end   3311.1 wide frame connection region 3312 lead-in surface   3312.1 retaining surface   3312.2 narrow frame connection region 3313 welded end   3313.1 interfering portion 3314 right side strap portion 3315 left side strap portion 3316 back strap 3317 back strap portion  3317a back strap portion  3317b inner side of protrusion 3318 outer side of protrusion 3319 end of rigidiser arm  3319a end of rigidiser arm  3319b void of protrusion 3320 top side of protrusion 3321 marks 3321a to 3321d bottom side of protrusion 3322 curved profile of rigidiser arm 3323 marks 3323a to 3323e bifurcation point 3324 reinforced portion 3325 split region 3326 reinforcement portion 3327 rounded corners 3328 recess of rigidiser arm 3329 main section of rigidiser arm 3333 opening of frame 3335 extension 3350 straight section of extension 3351 bend of extension 3352 hook of extension 3353 enclosable section of extension 3354 outer surface of extension 3355 joint 3356 strap logo 3357 indicia 3358 flange 3359 stem 3361 first section of extension 3363 second section of extension 3364 first protrusion of second section 3365 second protrusion of second section 3366 first slot of second section 3367 second slot of second section 3368 vent 3400 connection port 3600 PAP device 4000 external housing 4010 upper portion of the external housing 4012 lower portion of the external housing 4014 panel 4015 chassis 4016 handle 4018 pneumatic block 4020 pneumatic components 4100 inlet air filter 4112 controllable blower 4142 air circuit 4170 web of material 4172 helical coil 4174 inner portion of the bend 4176 long tube 4178 outer portion of the bend 4179 short tube 4180 humped portion 4181 peak of the fold 4182 slanted portion 4183 outer surface of the helical coil 4184 supplemental oxygen port 4185 fold line 4186 rotatable adapter 4190 electrical components 4200 printed circuit assembly (PCBA) 4202 electrical power supply 4210 input device 4220 humidifier 5000

PATENT LITERATURE

U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,743,767; 7,318,437; US patent publication 2009/0044808; WO publication 2000/069521; U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,724,965; 6,119,694. 6,823,869; US patent publication 2009/0044808; WO publication 2009/052560; WO publication 2005/010608; U.S. Pat. No. 4,782,832; WO publication 2002/11804; U.S. Pat. No. 6,854,465; US publication 2010/0000543; US publication 2009/0107508; WO publication 2011/121466; U.S. Pat. No. 7,562,658; EP patent 2,022,528; EP 1356841; US publication 2012/0318270; U.S. Pat. No. 8,439,038; US 2009/0078259; US publication 2009/0277525; US publication 2010/0224276; U.S. Pat. No. 6,581,594; US publication 2009/0050156; US2010/0319700; US publication 2009/0044810 

1. A component for a patient interface that directs a supply of pressurised air or breathable gas to an entrance of a patient's airway comprising: a textile portion including a knitted structure defining gaps in the textile portion; and a plastic portion over-moulded to the textile portion, wherein the plastic portion is overmoulded to the textile portion such that at least a part of the plastic portion passes through the gaps of the knitted structure to form mechanical connections between the textile portion and the plastic portion.
 2. The component for a patient interface of claim 1, wherein the textile portion forms at least one strap of a positioning and stabilising structure for a patient interface device and the plastic portion forms an end cap disposed on an end of the at least one strap to prevent fraying of the at least one strap.
 3. The component for a patient interface of claim 2, wherein the plastic portion is overmoulded to the textile portion to form the end cap such that the end cap compresses material of the textile portion disposed within the end cap.
 4. The component for a patient interface of claim 1, wherein the textile portion includes components serving as a portion of a textile mask and the plastic portion forms a shape-defining portion on the textile mask.
 5. The component for a patient interface of claim 4, wherein the shape-defining portion includes a plastic nose bridge.
 6. The component for a patient interface of claim 1, wherein the textile portion forms at least one strap of a positioning and stabilising structure for a patient interface device and the plastic portion forms a connector for coupling the at least one strap to a patient interface.
 7. The patient interface of claim 6, wherein the connector includes a female plastic member for coupling to a male plastic member on the patient interface.
 8. The patient interface of claim 1, wherein the textile portion forms two straps coupled to the plastic portion at opposing ends of the plastic portion.
 9. The component for a patient interface of claim 8, wherein the plastic portion is formed of a material that is more elastic than a material of the textile portion.
 10. The component for a patient interface of claim 1, wherein the plastic portion comprises two plastic members that are each over-moulded to the textile portion, each being overmoulded on a different one of at least two opposing surfaces of the textile portion.
 11. The component for a patient interface of claim 1, wherein the textile portion includes a first material having a first melting point and the plastic portion is formed of a second material having a second melting point, the second melting point being less than the first melting point.
 12. The component for a patient interface of claim 11, wherein the second material of the plastic portion comprises a thermoplastic polyurethane.
 13. The component for a patient interface of claim 11, wherein the textile portion comprises a thread of wrapped filaments about a core of a third material, the third material being formed of elastane.
 14. The component for a patient interface of claim 11, wherein the second melting point is approximately 220° C.
 15. The component for a patient interface of claim 11, wherein the first melting point is approximately 225° C.
 16. The component for a patient interface of claim 1, wherein the textile portion and the plastic portion are coupled to each other without a chemical bond.
 17. The component for a patient interface of claim 1, wherein the knitted structure comprises two materials and the gaps of the knitted structure are between the two materials.
 18. The component for a patient interface of claim 1, wherein the textile portion and the plastic portion are able to withstand a pull test of up to 40 N without failing.
 19. The component for a patient interface of claim 1, wherein the textile portion and the plastic portion are able to withstand a bending test of up to 64 bending occurrences without failure.
 20. The component for a patient interface of claim 1, wherein the textile portion and the plastic portion are able to withstand a washing test comprising 160 minutes of washing in a washing machine without failure.
 21. The component for a patient interface of claim 1, wherein the textile portion and the plastic portion are able to withstand a weld strength test of up to 40 N without failing. 